- By Sarju Saran Tiwari
- Sun, 10 Aug 2025 12:43 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
IAS Success Story: In 2008, as a young PCS officer in Muzaffarnagar, Rinku Singh Rahi uncovered a massive Rs 100 crore scam meant for the poor. Bribes were offered to silence him, but he refused, choosing truth over personal safety.
On March 26, 2009, his honesty was met with bullets. While playing badminton, he was shot seven times by mafias. One bullet destroyed his eye; another lodged in his head. Doctors doubted his survival, but Rinku’s willpower defied medical predictions.
From Setback to Fightback:
Survival did not bring justice. Instead, Rinku faced neglect, denial of promotions, and professional isolation. In 2012, in a bold act, he staged a sit-in protest at the Lucknow Vidhan Sabha, demanding action against corruption.
Even as his body bore the scars of violence, his mind sharpened with determination. He began preparing for the UPSC examination—a test that demands both intellectual and emotional resilience.
Cracking UPSC Against All Odds:
In 2022, Rinku’s persistence paid off. He cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination, exchanging his PCS badge for the coveted IAS title. It wasn’t just a career upgrade, it was a victory over fear, injury, and systemic apathy.
Posted as SDM in Shahjahanpur, he quickly earned a reputation for public-centric work. He created a WhatsApp group to resolve citizens’ issues efficiently, reflecting his commitment to accessible governance.
Humility in the Face of Anger:
One incident cemented his reputation for empathy. Upon finding a clerk urinating in public, Rinku didn’t scold him but sat down to explain why it was wrong. This unexpected approach angered some, triggering protests.
When dialogue failed, Rinku joined the protestors, holding his ears in apology—a gesture of humility rarely seen in authority. The video went viral, showcasing his ability to lead without arrogance.
Within 34 hours of the incident, he was transferred. But his story—etched on his scarred face—remains a powerful testament to courage, perseverance, and moral integrity.
IAS Rinku Singh Rahi’s journey proves that true strength lies in resilience, not in the absence of hardship. His scars narrate a story no textbook can teach—of unbreakable spirit and humble leadership.