Three Senior IPS Officers Suspended for Harassment of Actor-Model Kadambari Jethwani
In a recent development, three high-ranking Indian Police Service (IPS) officers in Andhra Pradesh have been suspended. This action comes in response to allegations made by Mumbai-based actor and model Kadambari Jethwani, who accused the officers of harassment and wrongful detention. The officers in question include P. Sitharama Anjaneyulu, a former Director General (DG) of Intelligence; Kranti Rana Tata, the former Police Commissioner of Vijayawada; and Vishal Gunni, a former Deputy Commissioner of Police. These suspensions followed a detailed investigation into their involvement in the controversial arrest of Jethwani.
The controversy began in August when Jethwani lodged an official complaint with NTR Police Commissioner S.V. Rajasekhar Babu. In her complaint, she alleged that the officers had conspired with K.V.R. Vidyasagar, a film producer and member of the YSR Congress Party. Jethwani stated that Vidyasagar had filed a case against her for forgery and extortion in February. According to her, top police officers collaborated with Vidyasagar to harass her and her family, unlawfully arresting them without any prior notice.
Jethwani and her elderly parents, who reside in Mumbai, were allegedly transported to Vijayawada under duress and detained for over 40 days. Jethwani’s lawyer, N. Srinivas, further claimed that Vidyasagar fabricated land documents to frame her and that the police intentionally delayed the filing of a bail plea, subjecting the family to continued judicial custody.
The state’s government issued a suspension order against the officers, citing “prima facie evidence” of “grave misconduct and dereliction of duty.” An official government order (GO) noted, “After careful consideration of the report and circumstances, it was concluded that there is sufficient evidence to warrant disciplinary proceedings.” The investigation into the incident revealed that Anjaneyulu had instructed the arrest of Jethwani and her family even before a First Information Report (FIR) was registered. The report showed that instructions for the arrest were issued on January 31, whereas the FIR was officially filed on February 2.
The disciplinary action against these officers has attracted considerable public attention. Following the inquiry, the three officers were among 16 IPS personnel who received a directive to report to the Director General of Police’s office twice daily until an official posting was assigned to them.
The incident has sparked a debate on the abuse of power by law enforcement officials, particularly in high-profile cases involving individuals from the film and entertainment industry. Many have expressed concern about the undue influence of political figures in police investigations, especially when it involves fabricated charges. Jethwani’s case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges individuals can face when confronting powerful interests.
Jethwani’s ordeal, along with the alleged harassment and unlawful detention of her family, has prompted discussions on the need for police reform and stricter oversight in the handling of cases. The accusations against the officers have underscored the importance of ensuring that law enforcement agencies operate within the boundaries of the law and remain impartial, irrespective of external pressures.
As this case unfolds, it raises questions about accountability and the extent of influence that political and economic power can exert on law enforcement procedures. The government’s decision to suspend these high-ranking officials is seen as a positive step towards addressing these concerns. It signals that misconduct, even at the highest levels of the police force, will not be tolerated.
In the aftermath, Jethwani’s case will likely serve as a reference point in future discussions about police conduct and the importance of upholding human rights during investigations. The incident also highlights the need for a transparent and unbiased approach in legal matters, particularly when it involves individuals targeted due to their professional and personal affiliations. The actions taken by the Andhra Pradesh government may pave the way for more stringent checks on police conduct, reinforcing the rule of law.