The Odisha government Tuesday suspended IPS officer Pandit Rajesh Uttamrao on the grounds of “grave misconduct” after allegations emerged that he had forcibly entered the home of a married woman inspector and misbehaved with her. The alleged incident took place on July 27 night. A 2007-batch IPS officer, Pandit (51) is currently posted as DIG, fire services and home guard. An order issued by the state home department said that the DGP, Odisha had submitted a confidential report against Pandit on the incident. “Whereas a disciplinary proceeding against Shri Pandit Rajesh Uttamrao, IPS is contemplated on the grounds of grave misconduct as a Member of the Indian Police Service. Now, therefore, the Government of Odisha, in exercise of powers conferred by sub-rule (1) of Rule 3 of the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969, hereby places the said Shri Pandit Rajesh Uttamrao,IPS under suspension with immediate effect,” reads the Home Department order. Official sources said Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who returned from New Delhi on Monday evening, was apprised about the incident and he directed action in the matter. No formal police complaint has been lodged in connection with the alleged incident. Police sources said the woman inspector’s husband was also allegedly attacked, following which the IPS officer was taken away by police officials. During the period of suspension, Pandit will be posted at the State Police Headquarters in Cuttack. He has been asked not to leave the headquarters without obtaining the permission of the Director General of Police, states the home department order. Pandit could not be contacted for a comment.
