Etah: In a major administrative action in Uttar Pradesh’s Etah district, Chief Development Officer (CDO) Nagendra Narayan Mishra has been suspended following allegations of corruption that surfaced after a video circulated widely on social media. The state government ordered his suspension with immediate effect and attached him to the headquarters pending further inquiry.
The action was taken after a purported video clip began circulating online, in which Mishra is allegedly heard discussing arrangements for collecting money from Anganwadi centres. The video quickly drew attention on social media and triggered a strong response within administrative and political circles.
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According to the allegations emerging from the video, the Etah CDO is purportedly heard asking district coordinator Sanjeev Pachauri to arrange ₹10,000 from each Anganwadi centre. The alleged conversation sparked controversy after it became widely shared online.
Reports suggest that during the conversation Mishra allegedly indicated that funds should be arranged from each Anganwadi unit. However, the district coordinator is said to have refused the proposal and declined to be involved in any form of financial transaction linked to the matter.
As the video spread rapidly across social media platforms, the issue reached the government authorities. The matter was subsequently taken seriously at the higher administrative level, leading to directions for immediate action.
Following these instructions, the government ordered the suspension of Nagendra Narayan Mishra. Along with the suspension, he has been attached to the headquarters, meaning he will not perform his duties as Chief Development Officer until the investigation into the matter is completed.
Sources indicate that a departmental inquiry may now be initiated to examine the allegations in detail and determine the authenticity of the claims emerging from the viral video.
Administrative sources further stated that Mishra had earlier served in the rural development service as a Block Development Officer (BDO) before being promoted to the post of Chief Development Officer. The controversy surfaced during his tenure as CDO in Etah district.
In recent months, the state administration has taken several actions against officials accused of corruption and administrative irregularities. Multiple government employees in different departments have faced disciplinary measures ranging from suspension to dismissal and, in some cases, arrest.
Across various districts, officials such as junior engineers, clerks, pharmacists and other staff members have been caught allegedly accepting bribes. Some officers have also been removed from service over financial irregularities and administrative negligence, while others have been attached to headquarters pending inquiry.
Administrative observers believe the latest action reflects the government’s attempt to strengthen accountability and transparency within the system. Authorities have repeatedly stressed that irregularities in development programmes and welfare schemes will not be tolerated.
With the suspension of the Etah CDO, attention has now turned to the forthcoming departmental investigation. The findings of the inquiry will determine the next course of action, while the incident has already sparked significant discussion within administrative circles in the district.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
