Lapses, negligence alleged: Telangana HC seeks explanation on 7th rank to Shamirpet PS

Hyderabad: Telangana High Court has asked the state and central governments to explain the seventh rank granted to Shamirpet Police Station despite serious allegations of investigation lapses and overall decline in service standards.

Petition challenges ranking process

The notices were issued while hearing a petition filed by Lokahita Society, which challenged the authorities’ inaction on a representation submitted in February. The petitioner questioned how a police station facing multiple allegations could be awarded a top ranking.

Allegations of poor functioning

During the hearing, senior counsel Ravichander, along with advocate S. Goutham, argued that the police station’s performance was far from satisfactory. They alleged lapses in investigations, negligence in receiving complaints, and an overall decline in service standards.

The petitioners contended that granting the station the top rank in the state and 7th rank nationally was arbitrary and inconsistent with its actual performance.

Concerns over transparency

The counsel further alleged a lack of transparency in the ranking process conducted under the supervision of the Union Home Ministry. They claimed that the ranking did not reflect ground realities and was awarded in a one-sided manner.

ACB case against official

It was also brought to the court’s notice that an officer from the same police station is facing a case registered by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), raising further doubts about the credibility of the ranking.

Notices to key authorities

After hearing the arguments, Justice E.V. Venugopal issued notices to the Union Home Ministry, the State Chief Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), Vigilance Commissioner, Special Chief Secretary (Home), and ACB Director General. The respondents have been directed to file their counters with complete details.

Next hearing on April 20

The court adjourned the matter to April 20 for further hearing.