Erode / Tamil Nadu: IPS officer Balveer Singh (IPS:2020:TN), previously suspended in connection with custodial torture allegations, has been posted as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in the Special Task Force (STF) in Erode.
Background of the Posting
Before this appointment, Singh’s suspension was revoked in January 2024, after which he was deputed as Deputy Commandant to the Tamil Nadu Special Police (TSP) battalion at Tihar Jail, Delhi. The STF post in Erode, earlier held by an SP-rank officer, was reportedly downgraded to accommodate Singh.
Singh’s posting to Erode became publicly known after photos and videos of his farewell function at the Delhi battalion circulated on social media. He has not yet officially taken charge of the Erode STF.
Allegations and Legal Proceedings
Singh came under serious scrutiny in 2022, accused of plucking the teeth of suspects during custodial interrogations in Ambasamudram, Tirunelveli district. The CB-CID registered multiple custodial torture cases against him, leading to his suspension and temporary exclusion from promotion.
Recently, the Madras High Court stayed trial court proceedings in four custodial torture cases filed by the Tirunelveli CB-CID, temporarily halting the legal proceedings against Singh.
Profile of IPS Balveer Singh
- Birthplace: Tonk, Rajasthan
- Education: Mechanical Engineering degree from IIT Bombay
Professional Background: Worked for six years at Indian Oil Corporation before joining the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 2020
Mr Singh’s career reflects a blend of corporate and police experience, though it has been marred by allegations of custodial misconduct.
