The Kerala government on Tuesday took the decisive step of suspending a senior police officer, DIG (Prisons Headquarters) Vinod Kumar, following a formal case registered by the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB). The action stems from serious allegations of accepting bribes and accumulating assets through illegal means.
Immediate Suspension Following VACB Recommendation
The state's Home Department issued the suspension order with immediate effect, acting on the recommendation of the VACB. The order explicitly states that Kumar has been suspended from service pending a full investigation. This move was deemed necessary as the officer, holding a key position, could potentially influence witnesses, tamper with evidence, or obstruct the probe if he remained in his post.
The suspension comes barely four months before Kumar's scheduled retirement, highlighting the gravity of the charges. According to the official order, he will receive a subsistence allowance as per the Kerala Service Rules during his suspension period.
Charges of Bribery and Abuse of Power
The VACB's Special Cell in Thiruvananthapuram conducted a preliminary enquiry which found prima facie evidence against the officer. Based on these findings, a case was registered under Sections 7(a) and 7(b) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
The investigation alleges a systematic pattern of corruption. Bribes were reportedly collected from relatives of multiple inmates in exchange for official favours such as granting parole, extending parole periods, facilitating transfers between prisons, and arranging special facilities inside the jails.
In a modern twist to the corruption, some of these alleged illicit payments were funneled through digital platforms like Google Pay. Furthermore, the probe suggests that money may have also been extorted from prison staff in connection with their transfers, with the officer allegedly using his position and influence to pressure subordinates.
Parallel Probe into Disproportionate Assets
This suspension order follows closely on the heels of vigilance teams conducting searches at two locations linked to the officer. Teams raided his residence in Alappuzha and his official quarters at Poojappura in Thiruvananthapuram, seizing documents as part of a parallel investigation into alleged accumulation of wealth disproportionate to his known sources of income.
This assets case was initiated after VACB officers analysed Kumar's bank accounts while investigating an earlier bribery allegation. The twin probes paint a picture of sustained corrupt practices, allegedly leveraging his authority within the prisons department for personal gain.
The government's swift action in suspending the senior officer underscores its stated commitment to ensuring a fair and unhindered investigation, sending a strong message against corruption within the administration.
