IGP Kashmir orders reversal of transfers amidst ECI directive

SRINAGAR — The Inspector General of Police Kashmir Zone on Tuesday ordered the cancellation of all transfers ordered on February 25 following instructions from the Election Commission of India (ECI) in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

In an order, IGP Kashmir VK Birdhi stated that in pursuance to the instructions/clarification issued by the Election Commission of India, the transfer effected vide ZPHQ order No. 756 of 2024 dated 25.02.2024 is hereby cancelled ab-initio.

The order states that, however, instruction of the Election Commission, which continues to apply to J&K stands adhered to in letter and spirit.

Earlier, the Election Commission had stated that all the DEOs, Dy. DEOs, RO, AROs, and Range ADGs, lGs, DlGs, SSPs, SPs, Addl. SPs, Dy. SPs, Circle Officers (or equivalent rank police officers) shall be posted out if they have completed three years during the last four years in the same Parliamentary Constituency or districts.

“Thus, the Commission’s instructions dated 23.02.2024 would be applicable only to the above officers. Moreover, it shall be ensured that ROs and AROs are not posted in the Parliamentary Constituency which is comprised of their Home District,” it said.

The poll body said that the States/UTs with up to five Parliamentary Constituencies shall be exempted from the instructions dated 23.O2.2024.

It said that the compliance report from the Chief Secretary and DGP of the concerned states may be sent immediately.