In a recent discussion about the balance between public service duties and social media presence I came to know about Oshin Sharma, a Himachal Administrative Service (HAS) officer who has been transferred from her position as Tehsildar of Sandhol. Let’s know why and who is Oshin Sharma,
Who is Oshin Sharma?
Oshin Sharma is from Bharmour in Chamba district and joined the HPAS in January 2022. She has gained significant popularity on social media, particularly on Instagram, where she shares content related to exam preparations and various other topics. Her account has over 345,000 followers, making her a famous social media influencer in addition to her role as a public servant.
Why Is She Transferred?
The Himachal Pradesh government’s decision to transfer Sharma comes from alleged unsatisfactory performance in her official duties. According to reports:
- The Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Mandi reviewed Sharma’s work and found several errors.
- This review led to a notice from the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Dharampur.
- As a result, Sharma has been directed to report to the Department of Personnel in Shimla.
- She has not been assigned a specific station following the transfer.
The Balance Between Public Service and Social Media
Sharma’s active presence on social media has brought her fame but it also affected her image as a public servant. Her large following allows her to engage with a wide audience, potentially inspiring young people interested in civil services. On the other hand there are worries that her focus on social media might be affecting her professional responsibilities as a public servant. This argument shows us the challenges faced by public servants in the digital age, where personal branding and official duties can conflict.
Conclusion
A balance between professional responsibilities and personal interests, especially for those in public service is a must. As government officials of the digital age operate in various fields, it is important for the concerned authorities to ensure that the primary focus remains on serving the public effectively. This situation opens up broader discussions about the role of social media in the lives of public servants and the potential benefits and drawbacks of officials having a strong online presence. As the line between personal and professional lives continues to blur in the age of social media, cases like Sharma’s will likely prompt further debate and potentially shape future policies for public servants’ online activities.