Horticulture Dept suspends official for misconduct, smoking during online meet

Suhail Khan

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Baramulla, July 20: The Baramulla Chief Horticulture Officer on Monday placed an official under suspension for alleged misconduct and unprofessional behaviour during a virtual meeting, while also penalising him for smoking on camera in violation of federal tobacco laws.

Hafizullah Khan, Incharge HTG IV of Horticulture Zone Nihalpora, was suspended with immediate effect following his conduct during the online proceedings held earlier in the day, according to an official order.

 

The official has been attached to the Fruit Plant Nursery Sundri for the duration of the suspension, pending an inquiry into the matter.

In a separate action under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003, the department levied a fine of Rs 200 on Khan for violating the public smoking ban. The amount will be recovered by the cashier and deposited under the appropriate government head, the order said.

A four-member committee has been constituted to investigate the episode, with District Horticulture Officer Baramulla Mr Jagjit Singh named as chairman. The panel includes Horticulture Development Officers Ab. Hamid Khan (Bomai) and Muzamil Rasool (Pattan), along with Head Assistant Farooq Ahmad Hajam as member.

The committee has been tasked with submitting its findings and recommendations for further action.