Bhubaneswar: Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Y B Khurania, an IPS officer from 1990 batch, on Monday suspended a police inspector posted in Nayagarh district over allegations of misconduct and dereliction of duty.
According to an official order issued by the DGP, Sujit Kumar Das, former Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) of Sarankul Police Station in Nayagarh district, has been placed under suspension with immediate effect in the interest of public service.
The order stated that a disciplinary proceeding has been contemplated against the officer for alleged gross misconduct and dereliction of duty.
Suspension Takes Immediate Effect
The DGP’s order noted that the suspension was necessary considering the seriousness of the allegations against the officer.
“In the interest of public service, Sujit Kumar Das, ex-Inspector-in-Charge of Sarankul Police Station, Nayagarh district, is placed under suspension with immediate effect,” the order said.
It further mentioned that departmental disciplinary proceedings are being initiated against Das for his alleged actions while serving in the district.
Officer to Remain Under IG’s Disciplinary Control
As per the suspension order, Das will remain under the disciplinary control of the Inspector General of Police, Central Range, Cuttack, during the suspension period.
The move is part of the department’s standard procedure while disciplinary proceedings are underway against a police officer.
Sexual Harassment Allegation Emerges
According to police sources, the suspended officer had recently been transferred from Sarankul Police Station to the Nayagarh district police headquarters after a woman levelled allegations of sexual harassment against him.
Sources said the woman also lodged a formal complaint with the police in the district, accusing the inspector of sexual harassment.
While the police department has not officially linked the suspension order to the complaint, sources indicated that the allegations formed part of the circumstances leading to departmental scrutiny of the officer’s conduct.
Departmental Action Underway
The suspension marks the beginning of formal disciplinary action against the inspector. Authorities are expected to conduct an internal inquiry to examine the allegations and determine further action based on the findings.
The Odisha Police has not yet issued any additional statement regarding the status of the complaint or the timeline for completion of the departmental proceedings.
