Amaravati: The Andhra Pradesh High Court on Friday adjourned the hearing of anticipatory bail pleas filed by senior IPS officer M. Sunil Kumar Naik in connection with the alleged custodial torture case involving former YSRCP MP and current Andhra Pradesh Deputy Speaker K. Raghu Ramakrishna Raju.
Justice Y. Lakshman Rao extended interim protection from arrest to the Bihar-cadre IPS officer until July 3, 2026, and directed him to cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
The case has attracted significant public and political attention, with investigators probing allegations related to the alleged custodial torture of Ramakrishna Raju during the previous YSRCP government.
High Court Extends Interim Protection
During the hearing, the Andhra Pradesh High Court deferred consideration of Sunil Kumar Naik’s anticipatory bail petition to July 3.
The court also continued the interim protection already granted to the officer, ensuring that no coercive action is taken against him until the next date of hearing.
At the same time, the court instructed Naik to fully cooperate with the investigating agency and assist in the probe.
The IPS officer has been named as an accused in the case relating to the alleged custodial torture of Raghu Ramakrishna Raju, who was then serving as the Member of Parliament from Narsapuram representing the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP).
Background of the Case
The case stems from allegations that Raghu Ramakrishna Raju was subjected to custodial torture following his arrest in 2021.
Investigating agencies have registered multiple charges in connection with the case, including provisions under the Indian Penal Code and other relevant laws.
Following a change in government in Andhra Pradesh, the case was revived and has since become one of the state’s most closely watched investigations involving senior police officers.
Earlier, an Andhra Pradesh police team travelled to Patna in an attempt to arrest Naik. However, a local court reportedly declined to grant transit remand, citing procedural deficiencies.
Subsequently, Naik approached the Andhra Pradesh High Court seeking anticipatory bail and protection from arrest.
Who Is M. Sunil Kumar Naik?
M. Sunil Kumar Naik is a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the 2005 batch of the Bihar cadre.
Originally hailing from Andhra Pradesh, he holds a B.Tech degree and has built a distinguished career spanning two decades in policing and law enforcement.
Currently, he serves as:
- Inspector General of Police (IGP)
- Additional Commandant General, Home Guards and Fire Services
- Based in Patna, Bihar
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Naik has held several important assignments in both Bihar and Andhra Pradesh.
Gallantry Award
In recognition of his bravery and professional excellence, he was awarded the Police Medal for Gallantry in 2016, one of the country’s prestigious police honours.
Inter-Cadre Deputation to Andhra Pradesh
In late 2019, Naik moved to Andhra Pradesh on an inter-cadre deputation to his home state.
During this period, he served as:
- Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Crime Investigation Department (CID)
His tenure in Andhra Pradesh coincided with the previous YSRCP government.
Return to Bihar
Following the 2024 Andhra Pradesh Assembly elections, Naik returned to his parent Bihar cadre and resumed responsibilities there.
He currently occupies senior leadership roles overseeing Home Guards and Fire Services in the state.
Legal Challenges and Ongoing Investigation
The custodial torture case has placed Naik under intense scrutiny in recent months.
Investigators allege his involvement in events linked to the alleged torture of Raghu Ramakrishna Raju while he was in police custody.
Naik has denied wrongdoing and sought legal remedies through the courts.
With the Andhra Pradesh High Court now extending interim protection until July 3, the next hearing is expected to play a crucial role in determining whether the officer receives anticipatory bail.
What Happens Next?
The High Court will resume hearing the matter on July 3, 2026.
Until then:
- Interim protection from arrest remains in force.
- Naik is required to cooperate with investigators.
- The probe into the alleged custodial torture case will continue.
The outcome of the proceedings is likely to be closely watched given the involvement of a senior IPS officer and the political sensitivity surrounding the case.
Read also: IPS Officer Vishal Gunni’s Suspension Extended Till September 4, 2026 in Kadambari Jethwani Case
