Ballari SP Pavan Nejjuru Suspended With in day after taking charge
Ballari : Ballari District Superintendent of Police (SP) Pavan Nejjuru (IPS-2016 batch) has been suspended following allegations of dereliction of duty during violent clashes at the Valmiki Maharshi statue unveiling ceremony. The suspension, effective immediately, has created a stir in the state police establishment.
The incident occurred near the SP’s office in Ballari city, in front of BJP MLA Janardhan Reddy’s residence. Clashes erupted between supporters of BJP and Congress MLA Nara Bharat Reddy over banner placements ahead of the ceremony. Stones were thrown, causing damage to public property, and police failed to control the situation effectively, leading to widespread criticism.
Reasons for Suspension
According to reports submitted by the DG and IGP, the suspension was based on two primary grounds:
- Failure to Manage Situation: SP Nejjuru reportedly failed to control the unrest and restore order during the clashes.
- Incorrect Information to Senior Officers: The SP did not provide accurate updates or briefings to higher authorities regarding the actual situation on the ground.
The state government issued the suspension order under the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969. Key directives of the order include:
- The suspension is effective immediately.
- Nejjuru will not hold his central posting until the ongoing investigation concludes.
- He will receive livelihood allowances as per regulations during the suspension period.
The decision was approved by the DG and IGP following recommendations from Ballari DIGP. Analysts say the government took this strict step both to maintain law and order in the district and to send a strong message regarding the accountability of senior officials.
The suspension comes amid heightened political tensions between BJP and Congress factions in the district, with the Valmiki statue event acting as a flashpoint. Authorities have deployed additional forces in Ballari to ensure peace and prevent further unrest.
