Patna: The 1994 batch IPS officer of Bihar cadre, Mr Kundan Krishnan has recently come under public scrutiny following a controversial statement linking increased murders in Bihar during May and June to farmers having less work during these months. IPS Krishnan, who is currently the Additional Director General (ADG) of Police, Headquarters Bihar, suggested that this seasonal lull in agricultural activity leads to a rise in crimes. His remarks have sparked criticism from several quarters.
What Did Kundan Krishnan Say?
ADG Kundan Krishnan stated that “more murders happen in May-June because farmers do not have work at that time, which leads to increased crime.” He also announced that data on shooters from all districts would be compiled to take stringent action against criminals. Instructions have been issued to the Superintendents of Police (SPs) across Bihar to implement this directive.
While his intent appears to be to curb the crime wave, many have found the linkage between agricultural downtime and violent crimes to be an oversimplification or an absurd generalization.
Read also: 3 IPS Officers Appointed to Key Roles Ahead of Bihar Elections, Kundan Krishnan Made State Nodal Police Officer
Background of IPS Kundan Krishnan
Kundan Krishnan is a 1994-batch IPS officer of the Bihar cadre, known for his strict and fearless policing. Hailing from Nalanda district, Bihar, Krishnan has developed a reputation as a tough officer who does not hesitate to take on mafia dons, musclemen, and criminal elements. His name alone is said to deter criminals in the state.
Educational Qualifications and Career Highlights
Krishnan holds a Master of Arts degree in History. After completing his post-graduation, he prepared for the highly competitive UPSC Civil Services Examination and successfully joined the IPS, taking charge on 4th September 1994.
Over his distinguished career, Krishnan has served as Superintendent of Police in various districts, including Patna and Chapra (Saran). He is well known for several significant actions:
Arrest of Bahubali MP Anand Mohan (2006): While serving as Patna City SP, Krishnan made headlines by arresting the powerful and controversial MP Anand Mohan, sending him back to jail despite political pressure.
Control of Chapra Jail Riot (2002): Krishnan famously quelled a violent riot at Chapra jail where about 1200 prisoners had taken control and attacked police personnel. Demonstrating courage, Krishnan confronted the rioters armed with an AK-47, resulting in five deaths among the prisoners and regaining control over the jail.
Recent High-Profile Murder Investigations: As ADG Headquarters, he led the investigation into the murder of businessman Gopal Khemka in Patna. The swift arrest of the main accused within 72 hours earned him accolades for effective policing.
The Current Crime Situation and Criticism
Despite Krishnan’s record of strict law enforcement, Bihar has witnessed a surge in violent crimes, including a recent incident where criminals brazenly killed a prisoner inside Paras Hospital in Patna. These incidents have raised questions about rising lawlessness in the state.
Krishnan’s recent comments about the correlation between agricultural inactivity and crime have been widely debated. Critics argue that the statement oversimplifies complex social issues and risks stigmatizing farmers during a seasonal downturn.
