Is Ravadha Chandrasekhar the New State Police Chief of Kerala?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, Ravadha Chandrasekhar has been appointed as Kerala's new State Police Chief, confirmed by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. With a rich background in policing and a pivotal role at the Intelligence Bureau, Chandrasekhar's return to Kerala is set to shape the state's law enforcement landscape as he takes over amidst a complex political backdrop.
Key Takeaways
- Ravadha Chandrasekhar appointed as Kerala's new State Police Chief.
- He has a rich background in law enforcement and served in the Intelligence Bureau.
- His appointment comes amidst significant political implications for the state.
- Chandrasekhar's early career included a controversial police operation in Kuthuparambu.
- He succeeds Nithin Agarwal, the seniormost IPS officer in Kerala.
Thiruvananthapuram, June 30 (NationPress) In a specially arranged online cabinet meeting on Monday morning, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan officially sanctioned the appointment of Ravadha Chandrasekhar as the new State Police Chief (SPC).
A 1991 batch IPS officer from Andhra Pradesh, Chandrasekhar has spent the past 15 years on central deputation, currently holding a significant position at the Intelligence Bureau in Delhi.
His recent discussion with Chief Minister Vijayan earlier this month had sparked speculation regarding his return to Kerala, which is now officially confirmed.
Interestingly, Chandrasekhar once had ambitions of becoming a doctor, but under the influence of his farming father, he shifted his focus to a career in civil services.
After completing his studies in agriculture, he successfully passed the civil services examination and began his policing journey as an Assistant Superintendent of Police in Thalassery, Kannur.
His initial years in law enforcement were marked by controversy. In 1994, while stationed in Kannur, he led a police operation at Kuthuparambu aimed at dispersing a protest organized by DYFI — the youth wing of the CPI(M).
The operation resulted in the tragic deaths of five DYFI activists who were protesting against the then-state Minister M.V. Raghavan. This incident has had a profound impact on Kerala’s political landscape, particularly due to Raghavan's tumultuous relationship with the CPI(M).
Raghavan, a former prominent leader within CPI(M) and a mentor to the current Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, was expelled from the party in 1985 after attempting to establish connections with the Indian Union Muslim League and Kerala Congress.
Following this, he founded his own political party and allied with the Congress-led UDF. Since that time, the CPI(M) has frequently referenced the Kuthuparambu firing to mobilize its supporters and critique the Congress, especially under the leadership of K. Karunakaran who was in power at the time.
Upon his appointment, Chandrasekhar expressed his joy and stated that he feels privileged to assume this vital role. With only a year remaining before his retirement, he now takes the helm as the top cop in the state, surpassing Nithin Agarwal, who is the highest-ranking IPS officer in Kerala.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the weight of this decision amidst the state's intricate political dynamics. His extensive experience and previous roles position him as a pivotal figure in addressing law enforcement challenges. It remains to be seen how his leadership will influence ongoing political narratives and the public's trust in the police force.
NationPress
30/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ravadha Chandrasekhar?
Ravadha Chandrasekhar is a 1991 batch IPS officer from Andhra Pradesh, recently appointed as Kerala's State Police Chief after serving in the Intelligence Bureau.
What role did Chandrasekhar hold before his appointment?
Prior to his appointment as State Police Chief, Chandrasekhar was serving in a key position at the Intelligence Bureau in Delhi.
What significant event is associated with Chandrasekhar's early career?
In 1994, Chandrasekhar led a police operation in Kannur that resulted in the deaths of five DYFI activists, a controversial incident that impacted Kerala's political landscape.
How has the CPI(M) used the Kuthuparambu incident?
The CPI(M) has frequently referenced the Kuthuparambu firing to rally its support base and criticize the Congress party since the incident.
What is Chandrasekhar's educational background?
Chandrasekhar initially studied agriculture before passing the civil services exam, which led to his career in policing.
