‘Disabled’ Civil Servant’s Dance Video Triggers Public Outcry

Viral Dance Clip Sparks Scrutiny

In central India’s Madhya Pradesh state, a newly appointed civil servant is under fire after a video of her dancing surfaced on social media in February. Authorities selected Priyanka Kadam under the disability quota in the state’s civil service exam — but her lively appearance in a viral clip has sparked public debate and calls for an investigation.

She cleared the Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission (MPPSC) 2022 exam and now holds a senior administrative post.

While the video might seem innocuous to some, local critics argue it casts doubt on her eligibility for the reserved quota for persons with disabilities.

Youth Organisation Demands Reassessment

The controversy was fueled by the National Educated Youth Union, a student-led group in India, which has demanded a full medical reassessment of all candidates who qualified under the disability quota in the latest MPPSC cycle.

The group’s leader, Radhe Jat, claimed that Kadam’s disability certification should be verified by doctors at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Bhopal.

Jat alleged that her dance video contradicts her claim of being physically impaired. “This raises broader concerns about the transparency of the certification process,” he said.

Kadam Defends Her Eligibility

Kadam, however, has strongly defended her appointment. In a statement quoted by Indian media, she said she has 45% permanent disability due to a serious bone condition called avascular necrosis, which causes the death of bone tissue due to limited blood supply.

The condition developed after a severe hip injury she sustained in 2017, leading to four surgeries and metal implants in her joints.

“I may appear normal, but it’s only because of extensive surgeries and medical devices that I’m able to stand or walk,” she explained.

“Even the short dances I do are under medical guidance — they help lift my morale, but I still experience chronic pain and require medication.”

From Audit Officer to Excise Role

Kadam is currently serving as an assistant audit officer in the Treasury and Accounts Department in Ujjain, a historic city in Madhya Pradesh. She had been selected for the more prominent role of district excise officer, but is yet to assume the position as administrative formalities are still ongoing.

“I come from a modest background and have worked very hard to reach this point,” Kadam told India’s PTI news agency. “There’s nothing dishonest about my selection.”

Viewer Reactions

From scrutiny to amusement, viewers from all walks of life had opinions on the incident. Mnay defended Kadam, emphasising that people with disabilities deserve to enjoy life, too.

Others pointed out that not all disabilities present themselves physically.

‘But I think disabilities come in different types, and have percentages, it could be a different type of disability she has.’

One user pointed out his concern for Kadam.

Broader Implications

The MPPSC has not yet released an official response. However, the episode raises important questions about how India’s public sector defines and verifies disability—an issue that resonates across developing nations with affirmative action policies.

The case underscores the delicate balance between inclusion and accountability in civil service systems. It highlights how viral content can rapidly sway public opinion, regardless of medical context.

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