Retired IPS officer A.B. Venkateswara Rao
In a significant decision, the Andhra Pradesh government has regularised the suspension periods of retired IPS officer A.B. Venkateswara Rao, recognising them as periods spent on duty. The order comes under Rule 5 (B)(4) of the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969.
The decision ensures he receives full pay and allowances for the two spells of suspension from February 8, 2020 to February 7, 2022, and June 28, 2022 to May 30, 2024.
Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand issued a G.O. on Tuesday regularising the suspension periods of Mr. Rao.
The move reinstates the officer’s professional contributions during his service.
Mr. Rao retired on May 31, 2024, as the Commissioner, Printing, Stationery & Stores Purchases.
The previous YSRCP government had placed him under suspension and didn’t give him any posting during the last five years.
Mr. Rao faced disciplinary proceedings over alleged misconduct in security equipment procurement, during his tenure as the Additional Director General, Intelligence.
Despite his suspension, disciplinary actions were dropped following a Supreme Court order in April 2022. Similarly, his second suspension tied to a criminal case was overturned by the Central Administrative Tribunal. The order was later upheld by the High Court.
The government confirmed that all allowances already paid as subsistence during these periods would be adjusted. The Director General of Police (DGP), Andhra Pradesh, had been directed to implement the order.
Published – January 28, 2025 09:06 pm IST