June 8th 2024.
In recent news, the Election Commission of India has taken action against a police officer in Odisha, Ashish Kumar Singh, for providing false information about his health condition. This action was recommended while the Commission was revoking the suspension order of another senior police officer, DS Kutey. The ECI has sent a letter to the Chief Electoral Officer of Odisha, stating that a special medical board from AIIMS in Bhubaneswar has declared Singh, a 2010 batch IPS officer, physically and mentally fit. This is in contrast to his claim of being on leave for health reasons since May 4.
It all started when Kutey, who is the special secretary to the Chief Minister of Odisha, was suspended by the ECI on May 28 for interfering in the election process. As a result, the Commission ordered a medical examination of Singh by a special medical board at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. After reviewing the report, the ECI found that Singh had misrepresented his health condition and directed the Chief Secretary of Odisha to take necessary action against him.
While Kutey's suspension has been revoked with immediate effect, the ECI has stated that other directions given in their previous letter will continue to be in effect. Any departmental proceedings against Kutey will require the Commission's approval, as stated in their letter dated June 6. Kutey is now directed to report to the Chief Secretary for further posting, as deemed fit.
Previously, when Kutey was suspended for interfering in the election process, the ECI had stated that he would report to the office of Resident Commissioner in New Delhi by 3pm on May 29. The Chief Electoral Officer of Odisha was also instructed to provide a draft of the chargesheet to be issued to Kutey, while the Chief Secretary of Odisha would arrange for the chargesheet under relevant service rules by 5pm on May 30.
Similarly, the ECI had ordered Singh to undergo a detailed medical examination by a special medical board at AIIMS-Bhubaneswar and submit a report about his health and treatment by May 31. This action was taken during the Lok Sabha and assembly elections in Odisha, which were held in four phases between May 13 and June 1.
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