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High Court Serves Notice to Home Secretary and DGP in IPS Ilma Afroz Case

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The Himachal Pradesh High Court has issued notices to the state’s Home Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP), seeking clarification regarding the delayed appointment of Ilma Afroz as Superintendent of Police (SP) in Baddi. A division bench comprising Justice Vivek Singh Thakur and Justice Rakesh Kanthala issued the directive on Friday during the preliminary hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by petitioner Sucha Singh.

Petition Highlights the Need for SP Ilma Afroz’s Deployment

The petitioner, Sucha Singh, emphasized the urgent need for Ilma Afroz’s reinstatement in Baddi, citing her previous tenure’s positive impact on law and order in the region. According to the petitioner, Afroz’s leadership was instrumental in combating drug cartels and illegal mining activities. Her strict enforcement of the law brought a sense of security to the general public and curbed the operations of criminal elements in the areas of Baddi, Barotiwala, and Nalagarh.

Achievements in Upholding the Rule of Law

During her tenure, SP Ilma Afroz implemented orders from the Himachal High Court and directives from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) with diligence. The petitioner highlighted that her actions against drug and mining mafias created a safer environment for residents and significantly curbed illegal activities in the region. Residents of the area reportedly requested Chief Minister Sukhwinder Sukhu in November to ensure Afroz’s continued posting in Baddi, but no action has been taken thus far.

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Concerns Over Lawlessness in Afroz’s Absence

The petitioner expressed concerns about the deteriorating law and order situation in Baddi since SP Afroz went on leave. Allegedly, local police reverted to questionable practices, including harassment and exploitation of the general public. News reports presented in court further corroborated these claims, painting a grim picture of the region’s governance in her absence.

High Court’s Prior Confidence in Afroz

The petitioner also referenced a September 9, 2024, High Court order in which the judiciary expressed confidence in SP Afroz’s ability to handle complex criminal investigations. However, citing political and bureaucratic pressures, the petitioner alleged that Afroz was placed on extended leave instead of being transferred due to the High Court’s restrictions on her removal.

Illegal Mining and Environmental Concerns

The petitioner highlighted the prevalence of illegal mining operations in Baddi, Barotiwala, and Nalagarh, which border Punjab and Haryana. He alleged that 43 stone crushers in the area were operating without legal clearance, leading to severe environmental degradation. SP Afroz’s efforts had significantly curbed these activities, ensuring compliance with the law.

Court’s Next Steps

The High Court has sought a detailed response from the state authorities, stressing the need for clarity on the delay in Ilma Afroz’s appointment. The petitioner hopes that her reinstatement will restore law and order in the region, addressing the concerns of the general public and ensuring action against unlawful activities.

The case has brought to light critical issues of governance, accountability, and the need for consistent leadership in regions affected by organized crime and environmental violations.

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