Lucknow: A deeply emotional video of Ayodhya’s GST Deputy Commissioner Prashant Kumar Singh has gone viral on social media, reigniting debate over the growing intersection of faith, politics, and administration in Uttar Pradesh. The clip surfaced just days after Singh submitted his resignation, citing moral anguish and loyalty to the state leadership.
In the video, Singh is seen speaking to his wife over the phone, visibly shaken and in tears. “I have put in my papers. I couldn’t bear it anymore. We must honour the people whose livelihood we depend on,” he says, his voice trembling. He also reveals that he had been unable to sleep for two consecutive nights due to emotional stress.
According to Singh, his decision was triggered by remarks made by seer Swami Avimukteshwaranand against Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The senior officer said the language used against the elected head of the state deeply hurt him. “I earn my bread from this government. Hearing such words was painful for me,” he reportedly told close associates.
The 48-year-old officer, a native of Mau district’s Sharma village, clarified that his resignation has been formally submitted to the Governor. Until a final decision is taken, he said he would continue to discharge his official responsibilities. “Once my resignation is accepted, I want to dedicate my time and resources to social service,” Singh stated.
This development comes close on the heels of another high-profile resignation. Bareilly City Magistrate Alankar Agnihotri had stepped down earlier, citing concerns over the new UGC regulations and an alleged attack on followers of the same seer, adding fuel to an already heated atmosphere.
The controversy began after Swami Avimukteshwaranand made a comparison between CM Yogi and historical figures, sparking sharp political reactions and protests. The episode has also exposed divisions within the saint community, with demonstrations continuing and calls for an official apology growing louder.
