Amaravati: The ongoing feud between Andhra Pradesh Deputy Assembly Speaker K Raghu Ramakrishna Raju and suspended IPS officer P V Sunil Kumar (IPS:1993:AP) has escalated, with Raju formally seeking the dismissal of Sunil Kumar. The confrontation comes after months of mutual accusations and public spats, particularly on social media.
Formal Complaint by Deputy Speaker
Deputy Speaker Raju has lodged an official complaint with DGP Harish Kumar Gupta, accusing the suspended IPS officer of making “false, reckless, and defamatory” allegations. This action follows a video posted by Sunil on December 20, suggesting that Raju could soon be arrested by the CBI in a Rs 945-crore bank fraud case, claiming that the Supreme Court had “cleared” the way by vacating a stay on the FIR.
Raju strongly criticized the IPS officer, stating that such public commentary amounted to a “media trial” and violated judicial norms. He argued that Sunil’s actions contravened the All India Services (Conduct) Rules and were intended to pressure investigative agencies.
Counterclaims by Sunil Kumar
In response, Sunil demanded that Raju be stripped of his constitutional post as Deputy Speaker to ensure a “fair and equitable investigation.” He cited his own suspension over custodial torture allegations as a precedent for his call.
Background of the Rivalry
The conflict between Raju and Sunil traces back to 2021 when Raju, then a YSR Congress rebel MP, was arrested by CID, headed by Sunil, on charges of sedition. Raju alleged custodial torture during his detention and named Sunil as the prime accused in an attempt-to-murder case.
The feud intensified after the Chandrababu Naidu-led government assumed power in Andhra Pradesh, with Raju becoming Deputy Speaker and Sunil placed under suspension. Since then, both have repeatedly traded accusations, with the latest episode centered on alleged involvement of Raju in a large-scale bank fraud case.
Ongoing Tensions
The dispute continues to escalate, drawing public attention and raising questions about political influence, administrative accountability, and the role of social media in high-profile conflicts between public officials.
Read also: IAS Santosh Verma Case Takes a New Turn: Judge and Typist Granted Bail, Sessions Judge Transferred
