Shimla, Nov 26,
Former Chief Minister and veteran BJP leader Shanta Kumar has raised serious concerns about the alleged discriminatory treatment meted out to Baddi Superintendent of Police (SP) Ilma Afroz by the Himachal Pradesh government. In a strongly worded letter to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Shanta Kumar has urged the CM to intervene and uphold his constitutional oath by ensuring justice for the officer.
The controversy revolves around SP Ilma Afroz, an IPS officer known for her honesty and dedication. Reports on social media suggest that Afroz was sent on leave abruptly after taking action against illegal activities allegedly linked to a prominent political leader’s family. Shanta Kumar alleged that the officer was summoned to Shimla, after which she returned to Baddi and, under the cover of darkness, packed her belongings and left for her home.
“This is a matter of grave concern,” Shanta Kumar wrote. “The state government must clarify whether it is punishing an officer for her integrity and commitment to duty. Such actions tarnish the image of Himachal Pradesh and send a discouraging message to honest officers.”
Shanta Kumar highlighted Afroz’s inspiring journey from a modest background to becoming an IPS officer through hard work and merit. He noted that she had earned her education at prestigious institutions abroad and emerged as a courageous officer who has taken a strong stand against illegal activities.
The former CM lamented the lack of media coverage on this issue, despite widespread discussions on social media. “This news is reaching everywhere, but newspapers remain silent. It is unfortunate that such an incident has gone unreported while it has become the talk of the town,” he remarked.
Drawing a parallel to other instances of governmental decisions causing distress, Shanta Kumar criticized the alleged punitive measures against Ilma Afroz. “Is this how the government rewards honesty and dedication? This action contradicts the promise of systemic change made by the Chief Minister,” he said, urging Sukhu to take a stand against political interference.
Shanta Kumar emphasized that if a leader’s family has been involved in wrongdoing, they should be held accountable, not the officer enforcing the law. “I urge the Chief Minister to show courage and take action against those guilty, instead of sidelining a capable officer who has upheld her duty with integrity,” he added.
Concluding the letter, Shanta Kumar congratulated Ilma Afroz for her honesty and bravery while calling on the state government to restore her position and reputation. “This is a test for the Chief Minister to prove his commitment to justice and the Constitution,” he stated.
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