TEAM HERALD
PANJIM: The preliminary inquiry initiated by the ACB (Anti-Corruption Bureau) into SP AV Deshpande is awaiting the Chief Secretary’s consent to proceed further. ACB had written to the Chief Secretary on April 23 for consent as the officer falls under group ‘A’ category.
SP Deshpande’s case is the second inquiry of the ACB, which is pending before the Chief Secretary for consent. One other case, which was sent to the Chief Secretary 15 days ago has also not been cleared. Both officers are facing serious charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
Meanwhile, the second inquiry, the departmental one on the alleged irregularities in the Police Training School (PTS) by Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Goa Police is almost complete and he will submit the report to DGP Goa Police, T N Mohan. “All the statements of the concerned officers in the alleged case have been recorded and even the statement of SP A V Deshpande has been recorded in the inquiry,” DIG Renganathan told Herald.
Renganathan said that he is compiling all the records and he will submit it to DGP this week for further action. However, as the department has not transferred SP Deshpande, questions are being raised about a fair and free inquiry into the scam.
A former police officer said that there is no chance of a fair inquiry into the matter when the officer is still holding charge as there are chances that the witnesses who are subordinate staff of the SP may fear harassment.
