The Kerala government has launched an investigation into the creation of a WhatsApp group reportedly formed exclusively for Hindu IAS officers. The decision, announced by State Industries Minister P Rajeeve on Monday, follows a formal complaint filed by an IAS officer alleging unauthorised use of his personal WhatsApp number to create a group focused on religious identity.
The groups were formed with names including 'Mallu Hindu officers' and 'Mallu Muslim officers'.
The officer, whose personal number was allegedly hacked, filed a complaint with the Thiruvananthapuram City Police Commissioner seeking an inquiry into the matter. According to PTI sources, the officer claimed that he did not form the group nor add any participants and stated that his account was compromised to create what appeared to be a community-based platform. Upon realising the group’s existence, he allegedly promptly reported it and dismantled it.
Minister Rajeeve expressed concern, describing the situation as "serious" and underscoring the government’s disapproval of community-based divisions within administrative ranks. "The government will look into this matter. There is a general code of conduct for IAS officers, which falls under the Public Administration department. We are currently examining the situation. Let’s review and determine what needs to be done," he told reporters from New Delhi, as per the report.
The controversy began when an IAS officer filed a police complaint alleging that his personal WhatsApp number had been hacked and used to create a religious group.
The members from various communities were reportedly added to this WhatsApp group which was labeled as a Hindu community group. After discovering the group, the officer immediately reported the issue and disbanded it. In his complaint, he clarified that he had not added any officers to the group. The incident took place three days ago.
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