KANPUR, June 19 -- A simmering conflict between Kanpur district magistrate Jitendra Pratap Singh and chief medical officer (CMO) Dr Hari Dutt Nemi has spilt into the political domain, with legislators publicly backing opposing sides and letters being sent to chief minister Yogi Adityanath.

The discord began in February when the DM conducted a surprise inspection of the CMO's office, reportedly finding key officials, including Dr Nemi, absent without notice. Follow-up checks at public health centres revealed irregularities in service delivery and documentation, prompting Singh to recommend Dr Nemi's transfer to the state government.

Tensions rose after an audio clip surfaced, allegedly featuring the CMO making derogatory remarks about th...