Kerala HC seeks records in corruption allegations against DGP Sreejith

The Kerala High Court has directed the Additional Chief Secretary (Home) and the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) to produce all documents related to allegations of corruption and abuse of authority against Director General of Police S. Sreejith.

Justice A. Badharudeen, hearing a petition filed by Dipin Edavana, an Assistant Motor Vehicles Inspector from Malappuram, ordered the authorities to submit the records in a sealed cover. The petition challenges an earlier order by the Home Secretary that concluded a Vigilance probe into the complaints was not warranted "as of now," describing the allegations as "generalised and speculative."

The court has also asked the authorities to file their statements or objections in the meantime.

Edavana's complaints against Sreejith include an unauthorised trip to Abu Dhabi to inaugurate a private enterprise, harassment, favouritism, and irregularities in printing driving licences and purchasing AI cameras during Sreejith's tenure as Transport Commissioner. The petition also alleges irregularities in the appointment of Havildars in the police force, and in activities connected to music groups and the Indian Rifle Association.

The Home Secretary's earlier order noted that Sreejith had taken casual leave for the Abu Dhabi trip and had obtained permission from the State Police Chief. It also stated that available pictures did not substantiate claims that he wore his police uniform during the inauguration. The order suggested an internal inquiry by the Transport Secretary into the allegations concerning the Transport Commissioner's tenure, and noted the State Police Chief's assertion that there were no irregularities in the Havildar appointments. On the extracurricular activities, the order observed that the All India Services (Conduct) Rules permit such pursuits provided they do not interfere with official duties, and found no evidence of commercial gain.