Overview
- A state-appointed Special Investigation Team concluded that ADGP M. R. Ajithkumar deliberately intervened in the December 15, 2023 Alappuzha assault probe by summoning investigators, altering case diaries, and changing forensic and witness material to protect accused security personnel.
- DGP Ravada A. Chandrasekhar reviewed and endorsed the SIT findings and the Chief Secretary issued a suspension order against Ajithkumar in late July on the grounds of prima facie misconduct.
- Ajithkumar filed an urgent petition at the Central Administrative Tribunal challenging the suspension as mala fide and timed to block his elevation, but the CAT refused an interim stay and listed the matter for hearing on August 20, 2026.
- Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala said the officer’s suspension makes his promotion to DGP unlikely under prevailing service rules, since disciplinary action normally halts advancement.
- The case sharpens debate over political influence and institutional accountability in Kerala policing and will determine both Ajithkumar’s career and how the Alappuzha victims’ case proceeds through disciplinary and legal channels.