LUCKNOW: A mischief played by a miscreant in the Hardoi district has brought to the fore as to how easy it is in Uttar Pradesh (UP) to use fake stamp and forge signature of magistrates to draft official documents. The case in point is the notice allegedly issued by a Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) to Lord Indra, the God of rains as per Hindu mythology, asking Him to explain within three days as to why adequate rains did not occur in the district during this monsoon. The notice also warns of strict action, if the Lord fails to reply within time frame. The district administration has ordered an inquiry into the incident.

The notice has been typed in the format and terminology used in the government offices. It has stamp and signature of Sub-District Magistrate (SDM) Satya Prakash Sharma of Savayajpur tehsil of the Hardoi district. `The Heavan' has been mentioned as the postal address on the envelope of the notice. The notice, while addressing Lord Indra, states that the clouds keep hovering over Savayajpur but no rains have taken place. leading to drought like situation, hence the Lord Indra must submit a written explanation within three days as to why there has been no rains in Savayajpur. And, if the Lord fails to give a satisfactory explanation within the stipulated period, the notice states, it will be presumed that He has nothing to say and stern action will be taken.

Interestingly, the notice was sent to revenue clerk Swatantra Kumar directing him to serve it personally to the Lord India. Kumar returned the notice with the remark that it cannot be delivered due to `technical reasons'. The SDM was on leave, hence could not be contacted for comments. But the incident left other district officials shocked. They said that the notice was undoubtedly a mischief but also admitted that forging signature and use of fake stamp was a serious issue. Chief Development Officer A K Dwivedi, who is also acting district magistrate at present, said that he was also shocked to see the notice. He has ordered a probe into the matter. He said that the SDM at present is on leave but after return, he will also asked to identify suspects, if any, in his office.