Srinagar, Nov 11(GNS): KAS officer Beenish Wani, who was at the centre of the viral video controversy involving IAS officer Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, has broken her silence in a video uploaded on her Instagram.

As per GNS, In the video, Wani thanked people for their support and love.

“I am really, really grateful and honoured. I love you all very much. You all gave me a lot of respect and love. Thank you,” she said.

“I only hope that justice is delivered very soon and without any bias. I am just keeping my fingers crossed, but like they say, hope for the best but prepare for the worst,” she added.

The incident took place on October 14 during a virtual review meeting of Mission YUVA, the J&K Government’s youth employment programme.

During the meeting, a heated argument broke out between Wani, Assistant Director, Employment and Counselling Centre, Ganderbal, and Ranjan, Administrative Secretary, Labour and Employment Department, over the role of NRLM in the programme.

Ranjan allegedly used abusive language against Wani and directed his staff to issue her suspension order. Wani objected to the language, after which she was asked to leave the meeting.

The incident triggered widespread condemnation and a pen-down strike by the JKAS Officers Association, which demanded an impartial inquiry and protection for Wani against retaliation.

The J&K Government on October 16 ordered an inquiry by Mandeep Kaur, IAS, Commissioner Secretary, Housing and Urban Development, to submit a report within 15 days. The National Commission for Women also took suo motu cognizance of the matter.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had said he took up the conduct of the IAS officer with the Chief Secretary in the strongest possible terms.(GNS)