In a display of remarkable compassion and commitment to public welfare, IAS officer Shri V K Pandian, the 5T Secretary to the Chief Minister of Odisha, rose above a recent incident of ink attack with a gracious act of forgiveness. The incident occurred during his visit to the Kanas area in Puri district, where he was listening to the grievances of the local populace.
Bhaskar Sahoo, a 38-year-old social worker from the region, expressed his frustrations through an unfortunate act of throwing ink at Pandian. However, Pandian’s response to this incident has exemplified the essence of understanding and humanity. Choosing a path of benevolence over legal action, Pandian not only forgave Sahoo but also instructed the police not to pursue any charges against him.
This magnanimous gesture of Pandian reflects his unwavering commitment to addressing public concerns. Even though Sahoo admitted his wrongdoings and expressed his regrets, Pandian’s emphasis on reconciliation and moving forward without legal repercussions speaks volumes about his character.
Sahoo, who had been passionately advocating for local issues, admitted his lapse in judgment and acknowledged that there were better ways to convey his grievances. Despite his refusal to apologize directly to Pandian, Sahoo’s remorse highlights the significance of open channels of communication between public representatives and the people they serve.
Pandian’s dedication to his responsibilities remains steadfast, as evidenced by his subsequent actions. Unperturbed by the incident, he continued with his official duties, engaging in field visits to assess ongoing development projects. During a visit to Jharsuguda district, he assessed the progress of significant initiatives such as mega lift irrigation projects and piped water supply projects, aimed at improving the lives of thousands in the region.
This is not the first time Pandian has faced adversity in his role. In 2018, he endured an episode of vandalism at his quarters carried out by a group of supporters from the BJP. Despite these challenges, Pandian’s commitment to public service and developmental progress remains unshaken.
Pandian’s determination to rise above personal setbacks, his ability to foster understanding and reconciliation, and his steadfast dedication to uplift communities truly make him a hero in the eyes of those he serves. His story stands as a testament to the power of forgiveness, empathy, and relentless pursuit of the greater good.
Prasanta Patnaik