Controversial IPS Officer Gets New Role Despite Serious Allegations
The Tamil Nadu police department has stirred controversy by posting suspended IPS officer Balveer Singh as Assistant Superintendent of Police for the Special Task Force in Erode. This development comes despite multiple pending cases against him for alleged custodial torture during his previous posting in Ambasamudram.
Balveer Singh, who faced intense scrutiny in 2022 for reportedly plucking teeth of suspects during interrogations, had been serving as deputy commandant with the Tamil Nadu Special Police battalion at Tihar Jail in Delhi prior to this transfer. His movement to the Erode STF unit became public knowledge only after photographs and videos from his farewell ceremony in Delhi circulated on social media platforms.
Downgraded Position for Controversial Officer
In a significant administrative decision, the STF post originally designated for an SP-rank officer has been downgraded to accommodate Balveer Singh. This move has raised eyebrows within police circles and among human rights activists who have been closely monitoring the cases against the officer.
The officer's troubles began during his tenure as assistant superintendent of police in Ambasamudram sub-division under Tirunelveli district. Multiple allegations surfaced regarding his interrogation methods, leading to the registration of several custodial torture cases by the CB-CID. As a consequence, he was placed under suspension and denied promotion consideration.
Legal Proceedings and Current Status
Currently, the Madras High Court has stayed trial court proceedings in four separate custodial torture cases filed against Singh by the Tirunelveli CB-CID. This legal protection has enabled his return to active duty, though he has not yet officially joined his new position in Erode.
Following the revocation of his suspension, Singh's initial posting was as deputy commandant with the Tamil Nadu Special Police battalion stationed at Tihar Jail in Delhi. His transfer to the strategically important STF role in Erode marks a significant development in his career trajectory despite the serious allegations that continue to shadow his professional record.
The case has drawn widespread attention to police reform and accountability measures within the state's law enforcement system, with many observers closely watching how the administration handles officers facing serious human rights allegations.
