Thiruvananthapuram: The political storm surrounding the high-handedness of ADGP Ajith Kumar in police affairs comes to a temporary halt with his removal from the responsibility of law and order. The order was issued after considering the report submitted by DGP Shaik Darvesh Saheb. This disciplinary action was taken 32 days after Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced an inquiry against Ajith Kumar.

Controversies involving Ajith Kumar have been causing headaches for the LDF government for some time now. Allies, especially CPI, have strongly demanded his removal from the law and order department, particularly due to his alleged role in the disruption of ‘Thrissur Pooram,’ which they believe cost them a parliamentary seat. CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam publicly demanded Ajith Kumar's removal, asserting that the ADGP in charge of law and order, who visits RSS leaders at will, should not continue in that position under the LDF government.

According to the government release, Ajith Kumar has been transferred to the Armed Police Battalion. Manoj Abraham, currently the Vigilance ADGP, will take over as ADGP Law and Order. The order appointing an official to replace Manoj Abraham will be issued on Monday.

Meanwhile, it is alleged that the government has not taken any serious steps against the ADGP, as the disciplinary action is limited to his transfer. Detractors of the government point out that this is merely an ‘adjustment action’ aimed at cooling down the allegations against him.

On Sunday, the Chief Minister arrived at the secretariat around 8 pm and signed the order removing the ADGP from his position. Earlier, the DGP submitted a report regarding the allegations against Ajith Kumar. PV Anvar MLA and Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan also raised concerns about his meetings with RSS leaders, his alleged role in the disruption of ‘Thrissur Pooram,’ and his involvement in gold smuggling in the state. The DGP's report was handed over to the Home Secretary, signaling imminent action against Ajith Kumar. Following this, the Chief Minister visited the secretariat on Sunday night and signed the order for his removal from the Law and Order department.