Amaravati: The Andhra Pradesh government has extended the suspension of two senior IPS officers, P. Sitharama Anjaneyulu (1992 batch) and Kanthi Rana Tata (2004 batch), for an additional six months amid ongoing investigations into alleged misconduct in a high-profile criminal case. The suspension will now remain in effect until March 8, 2026, or until further orders, according to official notifications issued on Tuesday.
Background of the Case
Mr. Anjaneyulu, who was the Intelligence Chief of Andhra Pradesh at the time of the alleged incident, was originally suspended in September 2024 under Rule 3(1) of the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969. He is accused of misusing his authority in Cr. No. 90/2024 of the Ibrahimpatnam police station by fast-tracking the investigation involving Mumbai-based actress Kadambari Narendra Kumar Jethwani without proper scrutiny.
Kanthi Rana Tata, the Police Commissioner of Vijayawada during the same period, faced suspension for allegedly failing to supervise the investigation properly, which reportedly allowed arrests without adequate examination of the complaint and basic investigative procedures.
Both suspensions were previously confirmed by the Ministry of Home Affairs and have been periodically extended by a review committee constituted under AIS rules.
Reason for Extension
The latest review meeting, held on September 2, 2025, noted that key documentary evidence in Cr. No. 469/2024 is still under scrutiny. The committee expressed concern that reinstating the officers prematurely could interfere with the ongoing investigation.
Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand, issuing the orders on behalf of the Governor, directed the Director General of Police to serve the suspension extension notices and ensure compliance.
Implications
The extension highlights the state government’s cautious approach in handling sensitive, high-profile cases involving senior law enforcement officials. While the suspension may affect the officers’ career progression, it is intended to maintain the integrity and impartiality of the ongoing investigation.
