‘No power to suspend ASI': Haryana minister Vij, Kaithal SP face-off over suspension order
The confrontation, a video of which went viral on social media, occurred during discussions related to an alleged land purchase fraud case
A sharp exchange of words broke out between Power Minister Anil Vij and SP Kaithal Upasana during a District Grievance Redressal Committee meeting in Kaithal on Friday. The confrontation, a video of which went viral on social media, occurred during discussions related to an alleged land purchase fraud case.
In the viral video, Vij was seen directing the SP to immediately suspend the concerned police personnel, asserting that strict action was necessary. “Suspend the policeman,” Vij said. SP Upasana responded that she did not have the authority to suspend the officer, saying that the official was posted in Kurukshetra district, which was outside her jurisdiction, and that the power to suspend rested with the Kurukshetra SP.
Her response triggered a sharp reaction from the minister. “What do you mean you don’t have the power?” Vij questioned. As the exchange intensified, he reportedly told the SP to “leave” the meeting if she did not have the power to meeting, escalating the tension in the room.
However, DC Aparajita intervened to calm the situation. The issue related to an alleged land fraud case in which the complainant accused an ASI of cheating him. The case was later transferred to Karnal.
Vij said, “I am ordering action against the policeman. Also, mention clearly that he will remain suspended during the inquiry. He has tried to influence the case.” At this point, SP Upasana told the minister, “Sir, this is not within my power. The Kurukshetra SP will take that decision.”
Her statement visibly angered Vij, who replied, “What do you mean you don’t have the power? When I am saying suspend him, you respond like this in every matter. Write to the DGP.” Despite this, the SP maintained, “Sir, I do not have the power.” Vij also directed to register a case against the ASI.
Clashes between Vij and officials are not new. In 2015, he had a high-profile argument with the then Fatehabad SP Sangeeta Kalia, even asking her to leave a meeting. When she refused, the minister stormed out, vowing never to attend a meeting in her presence. Kalia was later transferred.
