Why is Andhra IPS officer Sanjay's judicial custody extended?
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Synopsis
The ongoing legal troubles of Andhra's senior IPS officer N. Sanjay have captivated public attention. As his judicial custody is extended until October 31, the implications of his case raise questions about accountability in governance and the role of high-ranking officials. Discover the details surrounding this high-profile investigation.
Key Takeaways
- Judicial custody of N. Sanjay extended until October 31
- Allegations include misuse of government funds
- ACB is probing procurement irregularities
- Supreme Court directed Sanjay to surrender
- Public trust in governance is at stake
Vijayawada, Oct 17 (NationPress) The ACB Special Court has prolonged the judicial custody of senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer N. Sanjay due to allegations of misappropriating government funds.
The ACB presented him in court where his custody was extended until October 31. Following the court proceedings, he was returned to Vijayawada District Jail.
The IPS officer's bail petition was rejected by the court on October 13.
N. Sanjay, who belongs to the 1996 IPS batch, has previously held significant positions such as Director General (DG) of A.P. State Disaster Response & Fire Services and Additional DG of Crime Investigation Department (CID).
He faces accusations of improperly handling the tender process for the development and maintenance of the AGNI - NOC (Governance & NOC Integration) web portal and mobile application, as well as for hardware supply to a private firm, breaching protocols in 2023.
Further allegations claim that the IPS officer initiated the purchase of equipment without soliciting tenders. The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) is also investigating claims of payment irregularities to private entities and project execution.
Sanjay turned himself in to the ACB Court on August 26, following directives from the Supreme Court.
On July 31, the Supreme Court annulled the anticipatory bail previously granted to him by the Andhra Pradesh High Court.
The High Court had conditionally granted anticipatory bail to Sanjay in January 2025, citing his position as an IPS officer, implying a low chance of him fleeing.
The state subsequently filed a Special Leave Petition in the Supreme Court challenging this High Court ruling. The Supreme Court criticized the basis for the anticipatory bail and instructed Sanjay to surrender within three weeks.
During the prior administration of the YSR Congress Party, Sanjay led investigations into cases tied to the Andhra Pradesh Skill Development Corporation scam and the Amravati Inner Ring Road concerning N. Chandrababu Naidu, the then Leader of the Opposition and President of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), which led to Naidu's arrest and nearly two months in jail.
After Naidu took office as Chief Minister in June 2024, post the electoral success of the TDP-led NDA, Sanjay was reassigned to the office of the DGP.
The coalition government initiated an investigation by the Vigilance & Enforcement (V&E) Department into the allegations against him.
A report from the Vigilance recommended that the government pursue legal action against Sanjay under the Central Services Conduct Rules.
The government suspended Sanjay on December 4, and the ACB filed a case against him on December 24 for alleged misuse of funds.
Point of View
We observe that the extension of N. Sanjay’s judicial custody highlights the critical need for accountability among public officials. The ongoing investigation serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and integrity in governance, especially in positions of authority. This case not only affects Sanjay's career but also raises broader questions about systemic issues in public service.
NationPress
19/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the charges against N. Sanjay?
N. Sanjay is accused of misusing government funds by manipulating tender processes and procuring equipment without following proper procedures.
What is the ACB's role in this case?
The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) is investigating the allegations against N. Sanjay and has filed a case against him for the misuse of funds.
What was the Supreme Court's involvement?
The Supreme Court dismissed N. Sanjay's anticipatory bail and directed him to surrender, emphasizing the importance of judicial oversight in cases involving public officials.
How has the public reacted to this case?
The public is closely monitoring the case, as it involves a high-ranking official and raises significant concerns regarding accountability and governance.
What are the potential consequences for N. Sanjay?
If found guilty, N. Sanjay could face legal repercussions under the Central Services Conduct Rules, along with possible criminal charges.
