Jaipur: In a rare gesture of simplicity and humility, Rajasthan’s Minister of State for Environment Sanjay Sharma has returned the government vehicle and security provided to him after becoming a minister. He has also refused to take police escort in his area, saying that he has no fear of the people who have elected him.
Sharma, who is a second-time MLA from Alwar City, travels in his personal car to the state secretariat and the department without any fanfare. Even for field visits, the minister uses his own car. He believes that he does not need any special privileges or protection as a public servant.
Sharma had taken charge as a minister in the Bhajan Lal government on January 17, after which he got a government vehicle and a Personal Security Officer (PSO) as per the rules. However, he returned everything to the government on February 4, making him the first minister in the state to do so.
Sharma’s decision has earned him praise from various quarters, including his colleagues, opposition leaders, and civil society members. They have hailed him as an example of honesty, integrity, and austerity in public life.
Sharma, who is known for his social work and activism, had also made headlines when he made his mother sit on the chair during his oath-taking ceremony. He had said that he wanted to express his gratitude and respect to his mother, who had raised him with great difficulty.
Sharma has also been actively involved in raising awareness about various environmental issues, such as water conservation, wildlife protection, and pollution control. He recently flagged off a cancer awareness rally in Alwar on the occasion of World Cancer Day. He has also initiated several plantation drives and cleanliness campaigns in his constituency.
