In a significant move before the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has ousted Sandeep Mittal from the position of Director General of Police (Anti-Corruption) following a complaint by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) alleging bias and misconduct. This action is part of a larger administrative shuffle triggered by the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct in states going to polls. The Model Code of Conduct was activated with the announcement of election dates in five states, including Tamil Nadu, leading to key transfers to ensure governance neutrality during the election period.
The Election Commission had previously directed the transfer of Chief Secretary Muruganandam, Anti-Corruption DGP Davidson Devasirvatham, and other senior officials, including the Chennai Police Commissioner. Subsequently, IAS officer Sai Kumar was appointed as the new Chief Secretary, while Sandeep Mittal was initially designated as the head of the Anti-Corruption wing. Further adjustments were made in the state administration, with Manivasan, the former Secretary for Tourism and Charitable Endowments, appointed as the new Home Secretary, replacing Dheeraj Kumar to maintain administrative balance and impartiality.
However, Sandeep Mittal’s appointment quickly became controversial after DMK leader D. R. Balu lodged a formal complaint with the Election Commission. Balu alleged that Mittal displayed political bias towards the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) based on his social media posts. The complaint also highlighted Mittal’s comments on Islam and left-wing ideologies, suggesting a lack of neutrality expected from a senior law enforcement official during elections. Additionally, serious corruption allegations further fueled the demand for Mittal’s removal.
Following the complaint, the Election Commission has taken action by removing Mittal from the post of Anti-Corruption DGP. This decision is viewed as a crucial step by the Commission to preserve the integrity of the electoral process and ensure a fair electoral environment in Tamil Nadu as the state approaches a critical election.
