Family Ties Tested in Legal Arena

In a compelling case where family ties were set aside for justice, a retired senior police officer’s decision to dismiss a constable was successfully contested by his own daughter, an advocate. The case highlights the intricate balance between personal relationships and professional duties.

Allegations and Initial Dismissal

On January 13, 2023, Taufiq Ahmad, a constable with the Uttar Pradesh Police, faced dismissal following allegations of molesting a girl from Philibit who had arrived in Bareilly by train. The Government Railway Police booked him under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, leading to his arrest and subsequent jail time. The decision to dismiss Ahmad was made by Bareilly Range Inspector General Rakesh Singh, who cited the gravity of the charges as the basis for his strict action.

Legal Challenge and Court Ruling

Ahmad challenged his dismissal in the Allahabad High Court, where he found an unexpected ally in Anura Singh, the daughter of the officer who had ordered his dismissal. Anura argued that the inquiry process violated the Uttar Pradesh Police Subordinate Ranks (Punishment and Appeal) Rules, 1991. She pointed out that the inquiry officer overstepped by recommending punishment, a role reserved for the disciplinary authority. On July 31, Justice Ajit Kumar sided with Anura’s argument, quashing both the inquiry report and dismissal order. The court mandated Ahmad’s reinstatement and called for a new inquiry to be completed within three months.

Reactions from Both Sides

Rakesh Singh expressed pride in his daughter’s commitment to her professional duty, acknowledging potential lapses in the police investigation. Anura emphasized her role as an advocate fighting for her client, while Ahmad expressed gratitude for her efforts, unaware of her familial connection to Singh.