Andhra Pradesh High Court on May 22, 2020, revoked the suspension of the senior IPS officer, ABV Rao. He served as former State Intelligence Chief. The Court, as a result, ordered the State Government to reinstate him to regular service.
Senior IPS officer, A.B. Venkateshwara Rao, who is in the rank of DG, got suspended for violating the All India Services (AIS) Rules. Hence, the IPS officer had filed a writ petition in the High Court challenging his suspension order.
Suspension Order
In February, DGO Gautam Sawang submitted a report to the State Government. In his report, he said Rao got involved in irregular procurement of goods from an Israeli company. He allegedly awarded the contract to Akasam Advanced System Company, owned by Rao’s son. The government also alleged Rao for disclosing intelligence protocols and procedures of police to the foreign defence manufacturing firm.
Thereafter, the State Government suspended Rao under Rule 3 (1) of All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969. The government charged him with serious misconduct and acts amounting to treason. Later, Chief Secretary issued his suspension order. Moreover, he directed him not to leave Vijayawada without taking permission from the government.
Central Administrative Tribunal’s Order
Rao approached Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) challenging his suspension order. CAT dismissed his petition and upheld the government’s suspension order. Further, CAT ordered the government to file a case against the officer and carry out an investigation. Rao then approached the Andhra Pradesh High Court.
Court’s Order
The Court quashed the order upholding suspension orders of the senior IPS officer. It has set aside directions of CAT to file a case against the senior IPS officer. The Court revoked Rao’s suspension and ordered the government to take him back to service. Additionally, the Court directed the government to pay his full salary for the period of his suspension.
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