Odisha DGP Y.B. Khurania Suspends Police Inspector Over Alleged Misconduct and Duty Negligence; Sexual Harassment Complaint Under Investigation
Odisha DGP Y.B. Khurania has suspended Nayagarh police inspector Sujit Kumar Das over allegations of misconduct and dereliction of duty. Departmental proceedings have begun as authorities also investigate a sexual harassment complaint against the officer.
In a significant disciplinary action aimed at maintaining accountability within the police force, Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Y.B. Khurania has ordered the immediate suspension of a police inspector posted in Nayagarh district over allegations of serious misconduct and negligence in the discharge of official duties.
The action was taken against Sujit Kumar Das, who had been serving as the Inspector-in-Charge (IIC) of Sarankul Police Station. The suspension order was issued on Monday following concerns regarding his conduct and performance while in service.
The development has attracted considerable attention within Odisha’s police establishment, particularly because departmental proceedings have now been initiated against the officer. Sources also indicate that a complaint alleging sexual harassment has emerged against him, adding another layer of scrutiny to the case.
Immediate Suspension Ordered in Public Interest
According to the official order issued by the Odisha Police headquarters, the suspension has been imposed with immediate effect.
The order states that the decision was taken in the interest of public service and in view of the seriousness of the allegations levelled against the officer.
Authorities have indicated that the disciplinary action is not merely procedural but is based on concerns substantial enough to warrant formal departmental proceedings.
The order specifically mentions allegations of gross misconduct and dereliction of duty, both of which are considered serious violations under police service regulations.
Senior officials believe that maintaining public confidence in law enforcement institutions requires swift action whenever questions arise regarding the conduct of police personnel.
Departmental Proceedings Formally Initiated
The suspension marks the beginning of a formal disciplinary process against the officer.
Police authorities have confirmed that departmental proceedings are being contemplated and will move forward under established service rules.
Such proceedings typically involve a detailed examination of the allegations, collection of evidence, review of official records, and statements from relevant individuals.
The inquiry process is expected to determine whether the accusations against the officer are substantiated and whether further disciplinary measures are required.
Depending on the findings, outcomes can range from exoneration to penalties that may include censure, withholding of increments, reduction in rank, compulsory retirement, or dismissal from service in severe cases.
Officer to Remain Under IG’s Administrative Control
As part of the suspension order, Sujit Kumar Das has been placed under the disciplinary supervision of the Inspector General of Police, Central Range, Cuttack.
This arrangement is consistent with departmental norms followed when disciplinary proceedings are initiated against serving police personnel.
During the suspension period, the officer will remain under administrative monitoring while the inquiry progresses.
Officials say this mechanism helps ensure that investigations are conducted independently and without interference.
Sexual Harassment Complaint Adds New Dimension
While the suspension order itself refers to misconduct and dereliction of duty, police sources have indicated that a sexual harassment complaint against the officer has also come under examination.
According to sources familiar with the matter, a woman recently lodged allegations of sexual harassment against Sujit Kumar Das.
The complaint was reportedly submitted to district police authorities and subsequently became part of the circumstances that led to heightened scrutiny of the officer’s conduct.
Although Odisha Police has not officially confirmed a direct connection between the suspension order and the sexual harassment allegations, officials acknowledge that the complaint has drawn serious attention within the department.
The allegations are expected to be examined separately as part of the broader review of the officer’s conduct.
Earlier Transfer Followed Complaint
Sources reveal that before the suspension order was issued, Sujit Kumar Das had already been shifted from Sarankul Police Station.
He was reportedly transferred to the Nayagarh district police headquarters after the complaint surfaced.
The transfer was seen as an interim administrative measure while authorities assessed the situation.
Subsequent developments appear to have prompted the department to initiate stronger action through suspension and disciplinary proceedings.
The sequence of events suggests that senior police officials considered the matter serious enough to warrant a comprehensive review.
Odisha Police Emphasises Accountability
The latest action reflects the Odisha Police leadership’s stated commitment to maintaining discipline and accountability within the force.
In recent years, police departments across the country have increasingly emphasized professional conduct, transparency, and adherence to service standards.
Senior officers have repeatedly stressed that allegations involving abuse of authority, misconduct, or inappropriate behaviour by law enforcement personnel cannot be ignored.
The decision to suspend an officer pending inquiry is often viewed as a precautionary administrative step designed to preserve the integrity of the investigation process.
Officials note that such action does not amount to a determination of guilt but ensures that allegations are examined fairly and thoroughly.
Internal Inquiry Expected to Examine Multiple Issues
The departmental inquiry is likely to focus on several aspects of the case.
Investigators may examine:
The nature of the alleged misconduct.
Claims relating to dereliction of duty.
Official records connected to the officer’s functioning.
Complaints received against the officer.
Circumstances surrounding the sexual harassment allegations.
Compliance with departmental rules and procedures.
The inquiry team may also record statements from witnesses and relevant officials before submitting its findings.
The final report will play a key role in determining the next course of action.
Growing Focus on Ethical Conduct in Police Forces
The case comes at a time when police organizations across India are under increasing pressure to strengthen internal accountability mechanisms.
Public expectations regarding professional conduct, gender sensitivity, and ethical policing have risen significantly over the years.
State police departments have responded by establishing stricter monitoring systems, internal complaint mechanisms, and disciplinary frameworks aimed at addressing misconduct promptly.
Experts believe that swift administrative responses to complaints help reinforce public trust in law enforcement institutions.
At the same time, authorities are expected to ensure that inquiries remain fair, transparent, and consistent with due process principles.
Investigation and Proceedings Continue
For now, the focus remains on the ongoing departmental proceedings and examination of the allegations against the suspended officer.
Odisha Police has not yet announced a timeline for completion of the inquiry.
Officials have also refrained from making further public comments regarding the sexual harassment complaint or the evidence being examined.
As the investigation moves forward, the findings of the departmental inquiry will determine whether additional disciplinary or legal action is warranted.
The case is likely to remain under close observation, given the seriousness of the allegations and the emphasis being placed on accountability within the Odisha Police force.
