The Andhra Pradesh government has suspended three senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officers for their alleged involvement in the wrongful arrest and harassment of Mumbai-based actor-model Kadambari Jethwani. The suspended officers include former Intelligence Chief P. Sitharama Anjaneyulu (Director General rank), former Vijayawada Police Commissioner Kranti Rana Tata (Inspector General rank), and former Deputy Commissioner of Police Vishal Gunni (Superintendent rank).
The suspensions follow an inquiry into the officers’ role in a case filed by Jethwani, accusing them of acting in collusion with YSR Congress Party leader and film producer K.V.R. Vidyasagar. In August, Jethwani lodged a complaint with NTR Police Commissioner S.V. Rajasekhar Babu, alleging that Vidyasagar had fabricated documents to frame her in a forgery and extortion case, and that the police officers had conspired to wrongfully arrest and harass her and her family.
Allegations of Misconduct and Harassment
Jethwani accused the officers of threatening her during the tenure of the previous state government, warning her of dire consequences if she did not withdraw a case she had previously filed. According to her, the officers unlawfully detained her and her elderly parents, transporting them from Mumbai to Vijayawada without prior notice. The family reportedly spent over 40 days in judicial custody.
Her advocate, N. Srinivas, claimed that Vidyasagar had fabricated land documents to frame Jethwani and her family. He also alleged that the police delayed their attempts to file a bail plea, leaving them in a vulnerable position.
Government Inquiry and Disciplinary Action
A government order (GO) was issued detailing the suspension of P. Sitharama Anjaneyulu, stating that disciplinary proceedings were warranted based on “prima facie evidence” of “grave misconduct and dereliction of duty.” The inquiry revealed that Anjaneyulu had instructed the other officers to arrest Jethwani before a First Information Report (FIR) was filed. The FIR was registered on February 2, while instructions for her arrest were allegedly issued as early as January 31.
The GO emphasized that the government’s decision to suspend the officers was made after careful consideration of the report, noting that their actions represented a serious breach of duty. The disciplinary proceedings against all three officers have drawn significant public attention due to the nature of the allegations and the high-profile status of the victim.
Conclusion
The suspension of the three senior IPS officers marks a significant development in the case of Kadambari Jethwani’s wrongful arrest and harassment. The disciplinary action reflects the government’s stance on ensuring accountability within the police force, especially in cases involving misuse of power. Further investigations and legal proceedings are expected as the case unfolds.
Sources By Agencies