Missing laptop: Withdraw tainted IPS officer, tells Lokayukta

Bhopal, July 12(UNI) A 'missing' laptop computer has put a senior IPS officer in a tight spot with the Lokayukta asking the Madhya Pradesh government to withdraw the Inspector General from the Special Police Establishment on the ground of suspected integrity.

According to Lokayukta sources, the issue relates to a laptop computer which was not returned by Mr Mahan Bharat Sagar even seven months after his transfer to the Lokayukta Special Police Establishment from Hoshangabad range.

The Lokayukta had taken exception to the long silence on the part of Mr Sagar despite repeated reminders to return the Toshiba-make laptop computer.

Following an ultimatum, the IG informed the State Crime Record Bureau that he had handed over the laptop to his staff on his transfer from Hoshangabad. Simultaneously, he sought to know the price of the computer so that the amount could be deposited if it was not traceable.

Lokayukta Justice Ripusudan Dayal, in his communication with the state government, points out that all the facts throw a serious doubt on the capacity of Mr Sagar in performing his duties in SPE as Inspector General in a dispassionate and efficient manner inspiring faith of the people.

''Since, the SPE is the premier investigating agency, known for impartiality and efficiency, dealing with the cases involving even ministers and very senior IAS officers, it is imperative that the Establishment should be manned only by officers against whom no allegation involving integrity may be levelled, since, otherwise, people's faith in the Establishment shall erode and its functioning shall be adversely affected''.

The sources said the Lokayukta also suggested an inquiry to ascertain whether Mr Sagar had handed over the laptop to his staff.

''It needs to be considered whether the conduct of Mr Sagar in not responding to the letters could be expected from a senior IPS officer of the rank of IGP''.

Mr Sagar, who was relieved from Hoshangabad range in November last year, had joined the SPE in March this year.

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