In a major shift from earlier findings, Kerala Director General of Police (DGP) RA Chandrasekhar (IPS:1991:KL) has recommended that no strict disciplinary action be taken against ADGP M R Ajith Kumar (IPS:1995:KL) in connection with reported lapses during the management of the Thrissur Pooram festival.
According to sources, the DGP has advised that a formal warning would suffice, effectively ruling out harsher penalties such as suspension or departmental proceedings.
Earlier Report Had Held Officer Guilty of Serious Lapses
This recommendation marks a revision of the earlier report submitted by former DGP Sheikh Darvesh Sahib (IPS:1990:KL), who had found Ajith Kumar guilty of negligence and dereliction of duty in handling the iconic Thrissur Pooram festival, an event known for its high footfall and complex security requirements.
The earlier report had prompted concerns over a possible breakdown in police preparedness and coordination, but the state government had returned both initial reports for re-evaluation under the newly appointed DGP.
Officer Already Shifted Out of Police Cadre
The revised stance is reportedly based on the fact that Ajith Kumar has already been relieved from active police duty, reducing the perceived need for punitive measures. The government, according to sources, is now inclined to close the matter after issuing a warning, avoiding prolonged disciplinary proceedings.
This development has fueled criticism and speculation about lack of accountability within the top ranks of Kerala’s law enforcement.
Broader Concerns Over Selective Protection
The case has revived scrutiny over the handling of disciplinary actions in Kerala Police, particularly after the same former DGP Sheikh Darvesh Sahib had also flagged Intelligence Chief P Vijayan in a gold smuggling case. However, the state government chose not to reopen investigations, prompting speculation about selective shielding of senior officers.
With DGP RA Chandrasekhar now taking a more lenient stance on Ajith Kumar, the perception that disciplinary mechanisms are being selectively applied has gained further traction among political observers and civil society.
Accountability at the Top Under Question
Despite acknowledging lapses in the handling of the Thrissur Pooram festival, the lack of serious action against those found responsible has raised questions about the culture of accountability within the Kerala Police hierarchy.
Critics argue that merely issuing a warning especially after a damning initial report may set a concerning precedent for future administrative lapses, particularly those involving high-ranking officials.
