Andhra Pradesh Government Prolongs Suspension of Senior IPS Officers Over Alleged Lapses in High-Profile Criminal Case
The Andhra Pradesh government has extended the suspension of two senior IPS officers, P. Sitharama Anjaneyulu (IPS:1992:AP) and Kanthi Rana Tata (IPS:2004:AP), for a further period of six months in connection with their alleged lapses in handling a sensitive criminal case involving Mumbai-based actress Kadambari Narendra Kumar Jethwani. Their suspension will now remain in force until March 8, 2026, or until further orders are issued.
Background of Suspensions
Mr. Anjaneyulu, who was serving as the State Intelligence Chief, was initially suspended in September 2024 under Rule 3(1) of the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969. He faces charges of misuse of authority in relation to Criminal Case No. 90/2024, registered at Ibrahimpatnam police station.
Allegations suggest that he accelerated the case proceedings without adequate scrutiny, thereby raising serious concerns about procedural violations. His suspension was ratified by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), and subsequent review panels have consistently recommended its continuation.
Mr. Kanthi Rana Tata, the then Commissioner of Police, Vijayawada, was also suspended for supervisory lapses in the same case. He stands accused of allowing arrests to be carried out without sufficient examination of the complaint or a thorough preliminary investigation. His suspension too has been periodically extended after review by both the state and central authorities.
Ongoing Investigation and Review
At the latest review meeting, held on September 2, 2025, the committee observed that crucial documentary evidence pertaining to Criminal Case No. 469/2024 at Ibrahimpatnam police station remains under verification. The panel cautioned that reinstating the officers at this juncture could jeopardize the impartiality and integrity of the ongoing investigation.
In response to these findings, Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand issued the extension orders, which were formally signed by the Governor of Andhra Pradesh. The orders instructed the Director General of Police (DGP) to notify the concerned officers and ensure strict compliance with the suspension directives.
Government’s Position
The decision to extend the suspensions underscores the government’s resolve to guarantee a fair, transparent, and unbiased investigation into this high-profile case. By prolonging the suspension period, authorities seek to uphold procedural integrity and to safeguard the investigation from any potential interference or undue influence.
