Know Why UP Police Are Rallying Behind IPS Neetu Kadyan Amid Varanasi Lawyer-Police Clash – And Why 700 Lawyers Are Protesting
Varanasi has become the stage for an intensifying standoff between the police and the local legal fraternity. At the center of this conflict is ADCP Varuna Zone, IPS officer Neetu Kadyan, who has emerged as the rallying point for police personnel across Uttar Pradesh.
Over the past two days, UP Police officers have launched a sweeping social media campaign in her support, praising her leadership and commitment. Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) have been flooded with posts hailing the 2020-batch IPS officer, with hashtags such as #ipsNeetu, #Varanasipolice, and #gloryofuppolice trending widely. For many in uniform, she has become a symbol of pride and resilience for the force.
Legal Showdown: Petition and Mass Protests
The friction escalated when lawyers filed a petition in the Chief Judicial Magistrate’s court, seeking action against Ms. Kadyan and other officers, including ACP Crime Vidush Saxena, ACP Cantt Nitin Taneja, Cantt Station In-charge Shivakant Mishra, and several unnamed inspectors and constables.
In response, nearly 700 lawyers staged a massive protest, marching through the streets of Varanasi, demanding the removal of Ms. Kadyan. Demonstrations also took place outside the residences of the Police Commissioner and District Magistrate, where protestors shouted slogans against the police administration.
Police Campaign: Solidarity and Morale Boost
Amid the backlash, the police force responded with a wave of solidarity online. Officers shared posts and videos lauding Ms. Kadyan’s courage, with some clips even set to the iconic “Singham” theme music, underscoring her image as a fearless defender of justice.
Supporters hailed her as a “true guardian” and “the pride and glory of the UP Police.” For many within the ranks, this campaign served not just as a defense of Ms. Kadyan, but also as a broader morale booster for a force under scrutiny.
The Flashpoint: A Land Dispute
The roots of the confrontation lie in a land dispute at Puari Khurd village under Badagaon police limits. Construction was allegedly carried out on Plot No. 125 despite a court-issued stay order, triggering tensions between the parties involved.
On September 16, matters escalated when lawyers allegedly assaulted a police inspector at a local station. Angered by the lack of arrests, the inspector’s family arrived at the station, leading to heated exchanges, sloganeering, and an eventual clash between police personnel and lawyers.
A viral video captured Ms. Kadyan confronting the protestors with the sharp retort: “Whose heat will you cool down?” — a line that has since become emblematic of the standoff.
Who Is IPS Neetu Kadyan?
Born in Arya Nagar, Jhajjar district of Haryana, Neetu Kadyan is the daughter of Sampooran Kadyan, a farmer and property dealer, and Lakshmi Devi, an ANM. Her journey to the Indian Police Service reflects perseverance and grit:
Ranked 254th in UPSC 2017, initially joining as an IRS officer.
Cleared UPSC again in 2019 with rank 158, securing an IPS post.
A topper at RED School and Hansraj College, Delhi, where she completed her B.Sc.
Pursued an M.A. in Political Science while preparing for UPSC, dedicating up to 12 hours daily to self-study.
Overcame multiple setbacks before finally donning the IPS uniform.
Today, as ADCP Varuna Zone in Varanasi, Ms. Kadyan has built a reputation for determination and discipline. She often stresses that success comes only through hard work and persistence — not shortcuts.
The Larger Picture
The ongoing standoff highlights deep-seated tensions between the police and the legal community in Varanasi. While lawyers amplify their protests, the police force has closed ranks around one of its own, elevating IPS Neetu Kadyan as both a symbol of defiance and inspiration.
