Thiruvananthapuram: The uncertainty surrounding the issuance of a clearance certificate for senior IPS officer Yogesh Gupta continues. Despite a long-standing request from the Centre, the state government is yet to provide the necessary clearance. In light of the delay, Yogesh Gupta recently met with State Police Chief to discuss the matter. Officially, the meeting was held in his capacity as the president of the IPS Association, to plan a farewell for the outgoing police chief Shaik Darvesh Sahib, who is set to retire by the end of the month.

According to sources, Yogesh Gupta is also likely to meet Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to explain the situation in detail. Although he has made multiple attempts to meet the Chief Minister it could not be scheduled due to the CM’s “busy schedule”. Efforts to secure an appointment are reportedly ongoing. While Gupta is not expected to be appointed as the State Police Chief, the state government has not clarified the reasons behind the delay in issuing his clearance for central deputation.

While serving as Director of Vigilance Yogesh Gupta was transferred to the Fire and Rescue Services Department as he allegedly fell out of favour with the government.

Multiple reasons behind the transfer

Several reasons have been cited for his removal from Vigilance. One key issue was his recommendation to investigate the assets of P P Divya, who was then the president of the Kannur District Panchayat. However, this recommendation was not accepted by the government.

Another factor reportedly working against Gupta was his decision to transfer a case file — filed by activist Jomon Puthenpurackal against Chief Principal Secretary K M Abraham to the CBI without first seeking the state government’s opinion.

It is also pointed out that Gupta disposed of nearly 800 long-pending cases in Vigilance, including those involving IAS officers. He had also recommended inquiries against certain public sector undertakings and closed a complaint involving Opposition Leader V D Satheesan — decisions that reportedly invited further opposition from certain quarters.

Possible political undercurrents behind delay

Sources indicate that Gupta, having realised he may not be considered for the post of State Police Chief, began preparing for a Central posting. However, his potential appointment to key Central positions — including head of the Enforcement Directorate (ED), currently led by an acting director, or in a leadership role at the CBI — may be contributing to the delay in issuing his clearance.

Supporters of Gupta believe the delay is deliberate and driven by apprehensions over these possible central postings.

Meanwhile, there are also arguments that clearance is not required if an officer is already on the panel for the post of State Police Chief and is not being considered for an alternate position.

The matter remains unresolved, with no official word from the state government on when or whether the clearance will be granted.