THE RESIGNATION LETTER OF A VERTEBRATE IAS OFFICER

“The powers that be in Indian politics are least bothered about nation building. They have little concern about what happens to this country in future, where this nation lands up in the end. Behind the smoke screen of slogans and rhetoric, what has been going on in this country is not a grand ceremony of nation building, but a macabre dance of nation destruction!"

In the tumultuous landscape of Indian bureaucracy, where the ideals of freedom fighters and nation builders are often overshadowed by political interference, the story of Abhas Kumar Chatterjee, an upright IAS officer who never stood second in life, having secured first positions in IA, & BA ( Patna University),MA ( St. Stephen's College, Delhi) and IAS examinations, stands out as a beacon of integrity and resilience. This essay explores the metaphorical vertebral column that Chatterjee represented, holding steadfast against the stampede of corrupt politicians, and how his life intersects with the insidious tentacles of political agendas strangulating the talented nation builders.

Chatterjee's foray into the administrative arena in the late 1970s coincided with a period marked by political upheavals and administrative challenges. His metaphorical vertebral column symbolizes strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment to principles, standing tall against the stampede of corrupt politicians trampling the ideals of freedom fighters and nation builders.

One notable incident showcasing Chatterjee's commitment to ethical governance occurred during the M.A. exams at Dwarvanga University. The chief minister Jagannath Mishra's daughter attempted to cheat, embodying the insidious tentacles of corruption infiltrating academic integrity. Chatterjee, with his vertebral strength, exposed this malpractice, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to merit-based systems.

Chatterjee's encounters with the system showcased an unwavering commitment to his principles, reminiscent of the qualities rarely observed these days. The lack of a widespread social media presence at the time did not deter Chatterjee's impact, making his story well known to contemporary observers and fellow IAS officers.

Chatterjee's foray into the bureaucratic sphere during the M.A. exams at Dwarvanga University exemplifies his commitment to ethical governance. His bold intervention, reminiscent of the vertebral column's ability to provide structure, revealed a deep-seated desire for a transparent and merit-based examination system. The daughter of Bihar's Chief Minister found herself subject to the same standards as any other student, breaking the barriers of privilege.

As he navigated through various administrative roles, from the General Manager of Bihar State Road Transport Corporation (BSRTC) to facing challenges related to corruption and irregularities, Chatterjee's actions reflected a commitment to clean governance. The metaphorical backbone of the system, he resisted the tide of corruption, irregularities, and nepotism, ensuring that his principles were not compromised.

He said : "I have been increasingly disillusioned about the utterly subservient role and insignificant authority of public servants in the Government set-up of our state."

The middle part of Chatterjee's career, marked by his refusal to succumb to the allure of a higher position, showcased a unique form of integrity. The metaphorical vertebral column held its ground, rejecting the temptation of promotion in favour of an unblemished service career.

He refused an out of turn promotion offered by the Jagannath Mishra Government.

In protest he wrote: "Let me spend the rest of my service career with the Government in my present grade and earn my bread without adding to my sense of mortification."

This decision, akin to choosing a steadfast backbone over superficial gains, defined Chatterjee's dedication to the principles of honesty and service.

Chatterjee's clash with political forces, especially during the tenure of Lalu Prasad Yadav, symbolized the clash between the upright officer and the forces of corruption. His resilience and determination, reminiscent of the sturdy vertebral column, withstood the pressures of political interference, ensuring that his commitment to integrity remained intact.

Chatterjee's personal life also reflected his defiance against societal norms. His marriage to a tribal lady was a testament to his belief in equality and disregard for divisive social boundaries. This aspect of his life further exemplifies the metaphorical vertebral column that remained unyielding against societal prejudices.

The mysterious death of Chatterjee's son Pathikrit by drowning in the Damodar river introduced an element of tragedy into his life.

He could not be frightened to surrender to the evil dispensation by the tragedy.

Despite this personal loss, the upright IAS officer persevered, underscoring the resilience of the mettle of his vertebral column in the face of adversity.

He resigned from the IAS in 1992 and dedicated the rest of his life for the upliftment of the socially deprived and underprivileged.

His resignation letter is even today resonating with the gospel truth that “The powers that be in Indian politics are least bothered about nation building..." which encapsulates Chatterjee's disillusionment with the political landscape.

This powerful statement lays bare the reality behind the smoke screen of slogans and rhetoric, revealing a macabre dance of nation destruction orchestrated by those in power.

His life, intricately woven with incidents of exposing corruption, challenging societal norms through his marriage, and enduring personal tragedies, stands as a testament to the enduring strength that comes from an unwavering commitment to principles. Chatterjee's story serves as a powerful narrative against the stampede of corrupt politicians, upholding the ideals of freedom fighters and nation builders.

In the annals of Indian bureaucracy, Abhas Kumar Chatterjee emerges as the vertebrate IAS officer, symbolizing the backbone of integrity in the face of political turmoil.

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