Tamil Nadu DGP Directs Statewide Review of Long-Term Suspended Police Personnel
In a significant administrative move, Tamil Nadu Director General of Police (DGP) in charge G Venkataraman has ordered a comprehensive statewide review of police personnel who have remained under suspension for more than one year. The DGP has issued specific directives to all zonal and divisional officers to examine each case individually and consider reinstating eligible personnel where appropriate.
Substantial Numbers of Suspended Personnel Identified
According to official data cited in the circular, as of December 31, a total of 439 police personnel across Tamil Nadu were under suspension. These suspensions stem from various causes including corruption allegations, criminal cases, and ongoing departmental proceedings. Notably, among these suspended officers, 202 have remained out of service for more than twelve months, highlighting the extended nature of many suspensions.
The circular explicitly stated that keeping government employees under prolonged suspension without assigning them duties creates an avoidable financial burden on the government. This financial consideration appears to be a primary driver behind the review initiative, alongside concerns about human resource management within the police force.
Detailed Review Process and Guidelines
The DGP has established clear parameters for the review process:
- Senior officers have been instructed to exercise their power of suspension with greater caution moving forward
- All pending suspension cases must be reviewed based on their specific nature and current status
- Special attention should be given to cases involving long-term suspension, less serious charges, and matters that have experienced significant delays in court proceedings
For cases related to the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC), the circular specifies that decisions regarding reinstatement must be taken in consultation with the concerned department to ensure proper oversight and coordination.
Conditions for Reinstated Personnel
The DGP has outlined specific conditions for personnel who may be reinstated following the review:
- Departmental inquiries must continue against reinstated personnel
- Reinstated officers should be assigned to non-sensitive posts until charges against them are fully decided
- This approach balances the need to utilize human resources with maintaining appropriate safeguards during ongoing investigations
All divisional officers have been instructed to submit detailed reports on actions taken regarding suspended personnel by February 13, creating a clear timeline for implementation of the review process.
Case-by-Case Assessment Approach
Police sources have indicated that each suspension case will be reviewed on its individual merits, with appropriate decisions made without affecting ongoing inquiries or investigations. This nuanced approach suggests the administration recognizes the complexity of suspension cases and aims to balance justice, administrative efficiency, and financial responsibility.
The statewide review represents a significant administrative initiative within the Tamil Nadu police force, potentially affecting hundreds of officers and their families while addressing systemic issues related to prolonged suspensions and government expenditure.
