Is She Drunk? Netizens React After UPSC Topper And Barmer IAS Officer Appears Unsure About Direction; Watch

In one eye-catching incident on Republic Day today, UPSC topper and District Magistrate of Barmer in Rajasthan, Tina Dabi, found herself at the centre of a fresh controversy. A video of her flag hoisting ceremony went viral on social media, in which she appeared visibly confused.

The clip shows that after hoisting the national flag during the official ceremony, Tina Dabi appeared unsure about the direction in which she should face while saluting. The brief moment of confusion quickly became the focus of online jokes and criticism.

Moment of Confusion Caught on Camera

The incident took place during the flag hoisting ceremony at the Barmer district office. As per protocol, officers and security personnel stood at attention once the tricolour was unfurled. However, Tina Dabi was seen turning in the wrong direction while preparing to salute.

In the video, a security guard standing behind her can be seen subtly guiding her by gesturing in the correct direction. She then corrected herself and completed the salute. Though the mistake lasted only a few seconds, the clip spread rapidly across social media platforms.

Social Media Reacts Sharply

The viral video has triggered intense debate online. Several users questioned how a senior administrative officer could make such a basic protocol error during a national ceremony. Critics argued that such lapses reflect poorly on the seriousness expected from high-ranking officials.

Some social media users went a step further, suggesting that officers are becoming more focused on public image and camera presence than on administrative discipline. A section of users mocked the incident, claiming the attention was more on where the camera was placed than on the national flag.

Netizens Defend the Security Guard

While most of the criticism was aimed at Tina Dabi, many users praised the alertness of the security guard. A user named Vivek Srivastava shared the video on X and wrote that the guard handled the situation well and helped prevent a bigger embarrassment.

Other users echoed similar views, saying the guard's presence of mind ensured the ceremony continued smoothly. However, harsh comments continued to pour in, with some users remarking that when officers become social media personalities, official protocols tend to take a back seat.

Debate Over 'Celebrity Officers' Grows

The incident has once again sparked a wider discussion about the growing culture of "celebrity IAS officers." While supporters believe public visibility helps officers connect with citizens, critics argue that it also increases scrutiny and expectations.

As the video continues to circulate, the episode serves as a reminder that even small mistakes during national events can attract massive attention in the age of social media.