In a significant move, Raipur Divisional Commissioner Mahadev Kawre has suspended Deputy Collector (SDM) Tulsidas Markam of Mainpur subdivision in Gariaband district. The suspension came after an investigation revealed that Markam had granted irregular permission for a dance program that featured obscene dances and failed to take action despite being present during the event.
The six-day program, organized by a local youth committee, took place from January 5 to 10, 2026, in Urmal village under Devbhog police station area, Amlipadar tehsil, and Mainpur development block. Markam issued the permission on December 29, 2025, under the guise of “entertainment,” but the performances turned into explicit and vulgar acts, including semi-nude dancing, as seen in viral videos on social media.
Markam was personally present at the venue on the night of January 9, 2026, where videos allegedly showed him and police personnel showering money on performers, recording the acts, and remaining passive despite the objectionable content. The scandal led to widespread outrage, prompting swift action by Gariaband Collector Bhagwan Singh Uike, who removed Markam from his post, attached him to the district headquarters, and initiated a probe by the Additional Collector.
The investigation report, submitted on January 14, 2026, found that the permission granted by Markam violated rules, the obscene activities continued unchecked, and his presence and inaction amounted to serious negligence and misconduct unbecoming of a public servant. Based on this report and the viral evidence, the Divisional Commissioner decided to suspend Markam under the relevant service rules.
The incident also resulted in the arrest of 14 organizers, suspension of three policemen, and legal action against an Odisha-based dancer. Authorities stressed that official silence or support for such acts constitutes a dereliction of duty, particularly in rural areas where such programs can compromise public morality and safety. This case highlights concerns about enforcing cultural and decency norms in Chhattisgarh’s remote regions, with officials now facing increased scrutiny for oversight lapses.
The suspension serves as a reminder of the administration’s firm stance against administrative involvement in public scandals.
