In an extraordinary display of humility, newly appointed Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Rinku Singh Rahi, an IAS officer, publicly apologized to a group of protesting advocates by performing sit-ups while holding his ears. The unprecedented gesture came amid rising tensions between lawyers and local administration over delays in issuing Economically Weaker Section (EWS) certificates.
How the Conflict Began
The dispute dates back to July 25, when advocates in Puwaiyan accused Tehsildar Raghvesh Mani Tripathi and SDM Chitra Nirwal of negligence in processing EWS certificates. The lawyers launched a sit-in protest, demanding the officials’ transfer.
New SDM Steps Into the Fray
On Tuesday, District Magistrate Dharmendra Pratap Singh appointed IAS officer Rinku Singh Rahi as the new SDM of Puwaiyan. Just two days into his posting, he visited the protest site to negotiate with the agitating lawyers.
During discussions, SDM Rinku Singh warned that advocates littering or disrupting order could face disciplinary action—even suggesting sit-ups as punishment. The remark backfired, further angering the lawyers, who saw it as disrespectful.
The Unconventional Apology
Recognizing the escalating tension, Rinku Singh himself dropped to the ground and began doing sit-ups while holding his ears—a symbolic act of remorse.
“If anyone was hurt by my words, I sincerely apologize,” the SDM said mid-sit-up.
The unexpected move stunned the crowd. Bar Association President Subhash Chandra Shukla and other lawyers intervened, urging him to stop. While the gesture temporarily eased tensions, the core issue of EWS certificate delays remains unresolved.
Mixed Reactions to the Apology
The incident has sparked debate:
Some praise it as a rare act of humility in bureaucracy.
Others question whether such public displays undermine administrative authority.
For now, the standoff has cooled, but whether this unique apology leads to lasting solutions remains to be seen.
