THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, Jan 31: Ranchi SP (Rural) Sumit Agrawal has issued show-cause notices to 72 police officers for delaying investigations in various cases for over five months.
The SP has directed them to respond within a week, after which further action will be taken based on their replies.
Action Sparks Political Controversy
BJP state spokesperson Amit Mandal strongly criticized the state government, accusing it of exerting undue pressure on the police administration.
He pointed out that the Ranchi Rural SP had taken action against officers who had been negligent in resolving cases. A total of 72 Investigation Officers (IOs) posted in rural police stations of Ranchi were identified for failing to dispose of cases over the past five months.
“Jugaad technology”
Mandal alleged that political interference was affecting police operations, claiming that ministers and MLAs of the Hemant government were exerting control over law enforcement. He linked the issue to a recent statement by SSP Chandan Kumar Sinha, who warned that inspectors and sub-inspectors using “Jugaad technology” to secure SHO positions would face suspension within 24 hours. According to Mandal, this statement reflects the state government’s undue influence over police transfers and postings.
Law enforcement duties
He further argued that officers who secure postings through political connections often prioritize their superiors’ directives over their law enforcement duties. As a result, they neglect case investigations, leading to a rise in crime. Delays in resolving cases not only deny justice to victims but also embolden criminals.
Mandal accused the government of undermining law and order by using the police as a political tool. He demanded that SSP Chandan Kumar Sinha disclose which officers had received recommendations from ministers and political leaders.
He also questioned whether the 72 IOs, now facing suspension after the Rural SP’s show-cause notice, had secured their transfers through lobbying or were acting as political operatives.
Mandal stressed that this issue is not confined to Ranchi but extends across Jharkhand, where police transfers and postings are heavily influenced by political pressure. This, he argued, prevents officers from working independently.