Govt finally succumbs to pressure, removes ADGP Ajith Kumar from top post

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In a decision that came a bit late amidst the ongoing political conundrum, the government has removed controversial ADGP MR Ajith Kumar from law and order duties. Meanwhile, Ajith will remain in charge of the battalion.

CPI, the strong ally of the ruling CPM have been persistent in its demand, asking the chief minister to show the door on the ADGP. There was intense pressure on the Chief Minister to remove the ADGP following controversial issues like Pooram ruckus and the police officer’s covert meeting with RSS leaders in Thrissur.

In Ajith Kumar’s absence, Manoj Abraham will take charge of law and order. The bid decision against CM’s confidante comes after DGP Darvesh Sahib submitted his investigation report to the home secretary on Sunday. The ADGP-RSS meeting found place in the DGP's report and it is said that the report defenestrated most of the earlier claims made by the ADGP, defending his meeting with RSS leaders.

CM Pinarayi Vijayan stayed until late Sunday night in the secretariat heading serious political discussions. It is also mentioned that the report pointed out the inept way the police handled Ridhan Basil's murder case. The report mentioned the failure of the police during the last phase of the investigation into the Ridhan Basil murder case. A serious lapse was also found in the investigation of Mami's missing case. Both these cases have been handed over to the Crime Branch. The DGP will meet the Chief Minister directly and convey his findings in the report.

CPI was fuming after allegations went thick about ADGP’s intervention in the Pooram ruckus that is alleged to have defeated CPI candidate Sunilkumar in Thrissur. Despite many demands from CPI, the government hitherto shielded ADGP, inviting brickbats from the allies. Sunday’s decision to move ADGP Ajith Kumar from law and order charge will give a necessary relief for CPI leadership.