31-07-2023 : IPS officer Basant Rath, who has served in various capacities within the Jammu and Kashmir Police, is facing an extended suspension of six months until January 2024, as per an order issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. This suspension was initially imposed in July 2020, following allegations of insubordination towards superiors despite a court order.
The IPS officer, belonging to the 2000 batch of the AGMUT cadre, had been under scrutiny, leading to his suspension. After considering the case’s facts and circumstances, along with the recommendations of the Central Review Committee, the President has decided to prolong Rath’s suspension for an additional 180 days beyond July 31, 2023, as stated in the order dated July 28.
The central review committee thoroughly assessed the entirety of Rath’s suspension and invoked Rule 3 of the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969, to recommend the extension. Under this rule, any government officer who faces disciplinary proceedings or has pending cases can remain suspended until a final verdict is delivered.
The order’s details were made public on Monday, indicating the continuation of the suspension, citing the need for further investigation and resolution in the case. Basant Rath’s suspension has drawn attention and continues to be a matter of significant interest within the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the broader law enforcement community.