Thiruvananthapuram: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has submitted a revised report in the controversial Alappuzha rescue operation case, further strengthening its findings against Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) M.R. Ajith Kumar, sources said on Friday.
The report specifically names Ajith Kumar and is said to be supported by additional evidence. It was submitted after State Police Chief Ravada Chandrasekhar sought clarifications on five points and returned the original report filed on June 23.
With the fresh report now in place, the State Police Chief is expected to seek an explanation from Ajith Kumar before forwarding his recommendation to the Home Department. Officials indicated that the process could be completed within a week.
If Ajith Kumar fails to offer a satisfactory explanation, departmental action may be initiated against him, potentially affecting his chances of promotion to the rank of Director General of Police (DGP). A vacancy at the DGP level is due to arise on July 31, and Ajith Kumar, the senior-most officer in the ADGP rank, is among those considered for elevation.
The case has also turned into a political headache for the government, with television channels replaying past statements of Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, made when he was Leader of Opposition, criticising the previous Pinarayi Vijayan government for delays in similar cases.
The renewed scrutiny has put the government on the defensive, while pressure is also building from Congress-affiliated organisations that have alleged that some party leaders are showing undue sympathy towards Ajith Kumar, delaying action.
The developments make the coming days crucial both for Ajith Kumar’s career and for the government’s credibility on police accountability.
(Inputs from IANS)