Is the Hemant Soren Government Illegally Retaining Anurag Gupta as DGP?

Ranchi, May 2 (NationPress) - The Leader of Opposition in the Jharkhand Assembly, Babulal Marandi, has made serious allegations against the Hemant Soren government, claiming they are unlawfully keeping Anurag Gupta, a retired IPS officer, in the position of Director General of Police.

Marandi referenced a communication from the Union Home Ministry to the state government, indicating that Gupta was directed to retire by April 30, 2025, upon reaching the age of 60. "Despite this directive, he remains in his role as DGP, which constitutes an illegal action," Marandi stated during a press conference at the BJP headquarters.

He emphasized that only the Central government possesses the authority to extend the service periods of IAS or IPS officers within the All India Services framework.

"This matter exceeds the state government’s jurisdiction. Gupta’s automatic retirement was due on April 30; nevertheless, the Chief Minister persists in appointing him to oversee the state police," Marandi pointed out.

He cautioned that any actions or decisions made by Gupta as the DGP after April 30 would be legally void.

"As per the Centre, Anurag Gupta's term has concluded, and presently, Jharkhand does not have a legally recognized DGP. He also held roles as the Director General of ACB and CID, leaving all three positions unfilled. This is an unprecedented scenario in the nation," he added.

The former Chief Minister also accused CM Soren and Gupta of having a "nexus," alleging that Gupta, under the CM’s orders, has been intimidating witnesses in various Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigations and falsely implicating individuals, resulting in their imprisonment.

Furthermore, Marandi claimed that illegal mining and coal theft are flourishing within the state with the government's and police's implicit support, with financial gains reportedly funneled to the ruling party.

He labeled Gupta a "tainted officer," citing that he was suspended for 22 months by Soren's administration. "The sudden goodwill the Chief Minister shows him is perplexing," he remarked.

Marandi also disclosed a letter dated April 22 from Sanjeev Kumar, Under Secretary at the Union Home Ministry, directed to the Jharkhand Chief Secretary. The letter stated that the state government’s notification appointing Gupta, a 1990-batch IPS officer, as DGP for two additional years from February 2, 2025, violates established regulations and the Supreme Court's rulings in the Prakash Singh case.

"The protocols established by the Jharkhand government and the appointments made under them are unlawful. According to Rule 16(1) of the All India Services (Death-cum-Retirement Benefits) Rules, 1958, Anurag Gupta cannot be legally retained post April 30," the letter indicated.