Former IAS Officer Divya Mittal Announces Independent Political Entry, Says UP Is Her ‘Karmabhoomi’

Former IAS officer Divya Mittal on Tuesday announced her entry into politics as an independent, saying Uttar Pradesh is her “karmabhoomi” and will be the starting point of her political journey.

In a video statement, Mittal said her decision was shaped by what she witnessed during her administrative career, particularly cases where government approvals, funds and provisions were available but problems faced by people remained unresolved.

“I realised that many problems of the public do not get resolved even when approvals, funds and provisions are in place,” she said, adding that there were people whose voices did not reach the government or whose problems remained unheard.

Mittal had resigned from the IAS in August after a 13-year career. She was a 2013-batch Uttar Pradesh-cadre officer and had served as District Magistrate in Deoria, Mirzapur and Sant Kabir Nagar before serving as special secretary in the state government's revenue department.

‘It Was Not A Question Of Funds Or Rules’

Explaining her decision, Mittal referred to a remote village where residents had sought a school providing education beyond Class V.

She said she had approved the proposal, but construction had not started even years later.

“It was not a question of funds or rules. There was a lack of intent,” she said.

She also cited the case of a landless beneficiary who had official documents for an allotted plot but had not received physical possession.

According to Mittal, an inquiry found irregularities in the reports and corrective action was taken, but the matter still did not move forward. She questioned what she described as “higher-level interference” in cases involving people who were legally entitled to relief.

Rural Infrastructure, Jobs Among Issues

Mittal said she wanted to raise issues including poor rural infrastructure, unsafe roads, examination paper leaks and employment concerns in the age of artificial intelligence.

She said these issues required greater public discussion and attention from policymakers.

“I want politics of intent, justice, concern and long-term thinking,” Mittal said. “My objective is not just to replace political leaders. It is to change the way politics functions.”

Says She Will Not Join Existing Political Party

Mittal also rejected speculation that she could join an existing political party.

She said she would instead work directly with citizens and build an independent platform.

She also alleged that false political rumours circulated after her resignation were intended to discourage newcomers from entering public life.

“I will not be deterred from raising public issues,” she said.

Appeals To Citizens To Join Her Effort

Mittal appealed to people from different sections of society — including teachers, farmers, students, doctors, labourers and lawyers — to join her initiative.

She said meaningful political change requires collective participation from citizens.

Her announcement follows her resignation from the IAS in August. At the time, Mittal said she was ending an “unforgettable” 13-year journey in the civil services, though she did not initially disclose her next step.