State Govt Can Take Action Against IPS/IAS Officers Serving In Their Territory: Centre Tells Calcutta High Court

The Calcutta High Court was informed by the central government that state governments have the authority to take action against IPS/IAS officers serving in their territory. The Additional Solicitor General submitted a circular from the Ministry of Home Affairs, clarifying that the Department of Personnel and Training is not the competent authority to take such action. The case involved a plea seeking action against former commissioner of police Vineet Goyal, who allegedly revealed the name of a rape victim, violating privacy norms. The court took note of the union’s submissions and directed the respondents to file their affidavits in opposition. The next hearing was scheduled for December 23. This decision highlights the jurisdictional authority of state governments over officers serving within their territories and the importance of maintaining the privacy and dignity of victims in sensitive cases.