Why Was Kerala Cop Suspended for Intoxication During HM Amit Shah's Security?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Assistant Commandant S. Suresh was suspended for being intoxicated on duty.
- The incident occurred during Union Home Minister Amit Shah's visit.
- A special report highlighted serious breaches of discipline.
- A departmental inquiry will follow under KPDIP&A Rules.
- Concerns have been raised regarding police credibility and security protocols.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 5 (NationPress) The Kerala government has decided to suspend Assistant Commandant S. Suresh of the Kerala Armed Police (KAP) Battalion after he was discovered intoxicated while on high-security duty during Union Home Minister Amit Shah's two-day visit to the state, according to government officials on Sunday.
As per official sources, this action follows a special report from the State Police Chief, Ravada A. Chandrasekhar, delivered to the Home Department, which highlighted a serious breach of discipline, dereliction of duty, and gross irresponsibility on Suresh's part.
The incident took place on August 21 at the Cochin International Airport's business jet terminal and safe house, where Suresh served as Officer-in-Charge.
Officials reported that Suresh reported for duty in an inebriated state, despite being part of a security detail tasked with the safe movement of the Union Home Minister.
He was promptly relieved of his duties and underwent a medical examination at the Angamaly Taluk Hospital.
A subsequent chemical analysis confirmed the presence of ethyl alcohol in his bloodstream.
The State Police Chief emphasized the seriousness of this misconduct, especially considering the incident occurred during a VVIP visit of national importance.
The report indicated that Suresh's actions compromised both security protocols and the credibility of the police force.
On the basis of these findings, A. Chandrasekhar recommended Suresh's immediate suspension.
Upon reviewing the report, the Home Department found prima facie evidence of grave indiscipline and ordered Suresh's suspension effective immediately.
A departmental inquiry will be conducted under the Kerala Police Departmental Inquiries, Punishment and Appeal Rules, 1958 (KPDIP&A Rules).
Suresh will receive a subsistence allowance during the suspension period as per Rule 55, Part I of the Kerala Service Rules (KSR).
Officials mentioned that the State Police Chief will soon propose a panel of senior officers to carry out the inquiry.
If proven guilty, disciplinary actions could range from withholding increments to dismissing him from service.
This incident has raised significant concern within the police department, particularly as it involved a senior officer with a critical role during the visit of one of the country’s highest-ranking leaders.
Senior officials stated that the police force will review security protocols to prevent such breaches in the future.