'ADGP fell asleep, did not hear minister's phone calls,' DGP records statement of MR Ajith Kumar regarding Thrissur Pooram disruption

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: DGP Sheikh Darvesh Sahib has recorded the statement of ADGP M.R. Ajith Kumar as part of the ongoing investigation into the disruptions that occurred during the Thrissur Pooram festival last year. According to sources, Ajith Kumar admitted in his statement that he was asleep when Minister K. Rajan attempted to contact him during the critical hours of the festival. He claimed he only became aware of the situation the following morning. His testimony also confirms that the minister had warned of possible issues in advance.

Ajith Kumar said he was in communication with the minister until 10:30 p.m. that night and had instructed officers to ensure the festival proceeded without disruption. However, after midnight, he went to sleep and only learned of the disturbances the next day.

The DGP's preliminary report found that Ajith Kumar, who was responsible for law and order during Thrissur Pooram, had failed in his duties. The DGP had earlier concluded that Ajith Kumar committed a serious lapse in maintaining public order. This conclusion was based on a review of official records, intelligence reports, and statements from other officers.

Despite having been in Thrissur for days prior and being aware of the risks, Ajith Kumar reportedly failed to visit the festival site, which was one of several lapses detailed in the DGP’s findings. The government, already in possession of this report, still directed the DGP to conduct a fresh investigation.

The DGP's findings describe the failures as serious, including dereliction of coordination duties. Additionally, Ajith Kumar's failure to answer phone calls from ministers and allegedly switching off his phone after learning of the issues are considered valid grounds for action against the senior police officer.