The Andhra Pradesh government has taken a decisive step in addressing allegations of police misconduct, suspending three senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officers for their alleged involvement in the wrongful arrest and harassment of Mumbai-based actor-model Kadambari Jethwani. The suspended officers include former Intelligence Chief P. Sitharama Anjaneyulu (DG rank), former Vijayawada Police Commissioner Kranti Rana Tata (Inspector General rank), and former Deputy Commissioner of Police Vishal Gunni (Superintendent rank).
The suspension follows an inquiry into allegations that the officers acted improperly in a case filed against Jethwani by K.V.R. Vidyasagar, a YSR Congress Party leader and film producer. Jethwani accuses Vidyasagar of fabricating land documents to frame her and her family, resulting in their arrest and detention in Vijayawada despite lacking any prior notice. She further claims that the officers, under the direction of Anjaneyulu, colluded with Vidyasagar to subject her and her elderly parents to humiliation and unlawful detention.
Jethwani’s lawyer, N. Srinivas, alleges that the police impeded the family’s access to legal representation, preventing them from filing a bail plea for several days.
A government order outlining Anjaneyulu’s suspension cites “prima facie evidence” of “grave misconduct and dereliction of duty.” The inquiry revealed that Anjaneyulu had directed the other two officers to arrest Jethwani before a First Information Report (FIR) had even been filed. The FIR was registered on February 2, while instructions for her arrest were allegedly issued on January 31.
This incident highlights serious concerns about the potential for abuse of power within the police force. The Andhra Pradesh government’s swift action in suspending these officers demonstrates its commitment to addressing allegations of misconduct and ensuring accountability within its law enforcement agencies. Further investigation is expected to shed more light on the full extent of the alleged wrongdoing and the role played by each officer. This case serves as a reminder of the crucial importance of upholding due process and protecting the rights of all citizens, especially in the face of accusations of abuse of power by those entrusted with upholding the law.
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