Keonjhar: Urging government officials to maintain humility during public interactions, Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari stated there is no place for arrogance in public service. His remarks came after a notice was displayed at the office of Anandpur Sub-Division Tahsildar Manoj Kumar Mahanta, instructing visitors to remove their footwear before entering his chamber.

Ironically, the Tahsildar himself was seen entering his chamber without removing his shoes. The notice board outside the chamber, signed by Mahanta, further drew criticism.

In addition, all chairs except the one used by the Tahsildar had been removed from the chamber, forcing visitors to stand while the official remained seated.

When the matter was brought to the Revenue Minister’s attention, he said the department’s Additional Chief Secretary had already spoken to the Keonjhar District Collector regarding the issue.

Pujari also mentioned during a recent conference of Tahsildars, clear directives were issued to ensure basic amenities such as chairs and drinking water are provided for visitors.

He added a similar notice was earlier seen at the chamber of the Ghasipura Tahsildar. However, following instructions from higher authorities, that notice was removed, allowing visitors to enter without removing their shoes.