Nellore, September 24

An incident of public indiscipline and discrimination by a government official has left customers shocked at a popular Nellore eatery. While political leaders like the Prime Minister, state Chief Minister, and other ministers often dine among the public, treating everyone equally, some officials are reportedly misusing their authority even in public spaces.

The incident took place at Muralikrishna Hotel in the heart of Nellore on Wednesday. A customer, arriving during lunch hours, found a vacant seat and tried to sit down. The person next to the seat asked abruptly, “Who are you? What are you?” in a tone that appeared both dismissive and intimidating.

The situation escalated when another person, sitting opposite, remarked sarcastically, “Will you sit next to the GST Joint Commissioner?” Feeling humiliated, the customer left the hotel without having lunch. Onlookers expressed their shock at the behavior of the official, questioning the necessity and appropriateness of such conduct in a public place.

This incident highlights a troubling pattern of some officials displaying unnecessary authority in public spaces, forgetting that hotels are open to everyone. Citizens have expressed their disappointment, stating that officials earning salaries from taxpayers should uphold respect and dignity rather than assert hierarchical power in everyday settings.

Critics argue that such behavior undermines public trust and raises questions about these officials’ ability to engage with people in villages or explain government initiatives, including GST benefits. If officials cannot treat citizens with basic respect in a hotel, can they effectively interact with them in the field or gain their cooperation in programs meant for public welfare?

Whether this incident will affect the public’s perception of GST officials in Nellore remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that the dignity and authority of government officials must be exercised responsibly, especially in public spaces where equality and respect should be paramount.