A storm of controversy has engulfed Nalbari, Assam, as serious allegations of mental harassment and misconduct have surfaced against the District Commissioner (DC), Varnali Deka, filed by Circle Officer Arpana Sarmah of the Paschim Nalbari Revenue Circle. The accusations, outlined in a First Information Report (FIR) submitted by Sarmah, paint a troubling narrative of prolonged mental harassment allegedly endured at the hands of DC Deka. According to the complaint, the harassment traces back to incidents as early as January 24, 2024, when Sarmah encountered difficulties in procuring 62 traditional Assamese scarves, known as “gamochas,” intended for freedom fighters and their families.
Following this incident, Sarmah alleges that she faced relentless scrutiny and baseless fault-finding from DC Deka, creating an atmosphere of intimidation and distress. Despite her attempts to address the situation through official channels, including a letter to the Personnel Department seeking extraordinary leave or resignation on March 11, 2024, Sarmah claims she was pressured into revoking her letter.
The situation reportedly escalated on May 7, during the electoral period, when Sarmah was verbally humiliated by DC Deka over logistical concerns at a local legislative assembly constituency. Feeling threatened and concerned for her safety, Sarmah decided to record the encounter, only to allege that Deka attempted to confiscate her phone even after she ceased recording. Sarmah’s apprehension was further heightened by Deka’s alleged habit of carrying a weapon, prompting her to seek refuge by filing a report at the Nalbari Police Station.
