Kerala CM Suspends IPS Officer Following Internal Police Controversy

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has suspended Sujith Das, IPS, after a conversation with MLA P V Anvar revealed internal police issues. Das, formerly Pathanamthitta district SP, has faced serious allegations. DIG Ajeetha Begum's report found significant lapses, prompting the suspension amid rising criticism from Anvar over police inaction.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan ordered the suspension of IPS officer Sujith Das on Thursday. This decision follows days of controversy after a leaked conversation between Das and Left MLA P V Anvar surfaced, allegedly exposing internal issues within the police department.

Das held the conversation with Anvar while serving as Superintendent of Police in Pathanamthitta district. The leaked conversation, which has been widely broadcasted by media, led to Das's removal earlier this week for purportedly damaging the state police's image.

A brief statement from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) confirmed the suspension of Das, citing DIG Ajeetha Begum's investigation that uncovered serious lapses in his conduct. Anvar's mounting criticism over police inaction against Das, particularly concerning illegal activities during his previous tenure in Malappuram, significantly influenced this decision. Both Das and ADGP M R Ajith Kumar are currently under investigation by a team led by State Police Chief Sheikh Darvesh Sahib.

(With inputs from agencies.)