Kalahandi (Lingaraj Mishra): In Kalahandi district, a notable deviation from the usual transfer norms for government employees has sparked widespread discussion and concern. Parbati Patnaik, who has served as the MGNREGS District Coordinator for over 13 years, continues in her position despite the standard three-year transfer policy. Appointed in October 2011, Patnaik’s prolonged tenure as the district coordinator in the DRDA office has prompted scrutiny and raised questions about the government’s system. Notably, during her tenure, five district magistrates, five superintendents of police, and more than six project directors of the DRDA, along with other senior officials, have been transferred multiple times. Meanwhile, contractual employees under the MGNREGS scheme at district, block, and panchayat levels have also experienced regular transfers.
In neighbouring districts such as Nabarangpur and Balangir, officers in similar positions have been transferred multiple times, adhering to the standard guidelines. However, in Kalahandi, this protocol appears to have been overlooked for Patnaik, leading to speculation about potential special treatment. Anonymous sources within the department have expressed frustration over Patnaik’s extended tenure, indicating that her prolonged stay has affected the workplace environment. There is growing demand among employees and local stakeholders for the district administration to address this issue and implement a transfer for Patnaik in accordance with the established rules.
