Kerala High Court Mandates Rotation and Stringent Selection for Police Controllers at Sannidhanam

Court emphasizes transparency and integrity in police appointments during Mandala-Makaravilakku festival

In a significant judgment, the Kerala High Court has underscored the necessity for periodic rotation and stringent scrutiny in appointing police controllers at Sannidhanam during the Mandala-Makaravilakku festival season. The decision comes in response to a suo motu case that highlighted the prolonged tenure of Sri K.C. Anilkumar, Grade Sub-Inspector, who held the position for 22 years. The court expressed concerns over potential institutional entrenchment, which could compromise transparency and administrative efficiency.

The bench, comprising Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V and Justice K.V. Jayakumar, emphasized that sensitive posts like the Police Controller at Sannidhanam require regular rotation to prevent the administration from being influenced by external factors, ensuring a fair and effective discharge of duties. The court's directive is aimed at eliminating risks associated with prolonged tenures that may lead to administrative influence and inefficiency.

Following the court's directive, Sri Krishnakumar R., APSI, KAP-I, was appointed as the new Police Controller. However, the court ordered a thorough examination of his credentials, service record, and overall suitability for the post. The court insisted on high standards of integrity, competence, and temperament for officers appointed to such sensitive roles.

The judgment also highlighted that Sri Krishnakumar R. was implicated in Crime No. 001 of 2016 registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and faced departmental proceedings. Consequently, he was relieved from his duties at Sabarimala, reinforcing the court's stance on maintaining transparency and public trust in police appointments.

The Kerala High Court directed the State Police Chief and Chief Police Co-ordinator to ensure that future appointments to Police Control Rooms at Sannidhanam are based on stringent verification and high standards of scrutiny. Officers should possess integrity, a commendable service record, and the aptitude to discharge their duties diligently.

This judgment marks a pivotal step towards enhancing administrative efficiency and maintaining public trust during the festival season, with the court disposing of the suo motu case after issuing these directives.

Bottom Line:

Change of Police Controller at Sannidhanam during Mandala-Makaravilakku festival season - Court emphasizes the importance of periodic rotation in sensitive posts to avoid institutional entrenchment and ensure transparency and administrative efficiency. Officers appointed must possess integrity, a good service record, and the capability to discharge duties effectively.

Statutory provision(s): Police Administration

Suo Motu v. State of Kerala, (Kerala)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2810681