Controversial Chhattisgarh cop to probe PDS case

RAIPUR : The newly elected Congress government in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday named controversial police officer SRP Kalluri as the head of a special investigation team (SIT) that will probe alleged irregularities in the public distribution system (PDS). “The 12-member SIT will be headed by SRP Kalluri, who is currently posted as IG Anti-corruption Bureau (ACB) [Anti-corruption Bureau] and will have other police officers,” said Taran Sinha, director of public relations, Chhattisgarh government.

The state government had on January 1 formed thespecial investigation team (SIT) to probe the alleged scam, which came to light in 2014 after the Anti-corruption Bureau (ACB) conducted raids in various parts of the state and seized cash and documents.

However, the opposition BJP on Tuesday took strong exception to Kalluri’s appointment as special investigation team (SIT) chief.

On January 2 last year, Inspector General of Police Kalluri was transferred from Bastar to the state police headquarters following allegations of human rights violations.

Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson Sachinand Upasane said that the Congress criticised same the police officer when it was in opposition.

“This shows that Congress government is trying to save someone,” he said.