In Nainital, action has been taken against more than half a dozen police personnel following the kidnapping of five members during the district panchayat chairperson and vice-chairperson elections. Two policemen have been suspended, while CO Pramod Sah has been transferred to IRB Dehradun and Tallital SO Ramesh Singh Bohra to Almora. Three others have been sent to police lines, and recommendations for action against PAC personnel deployed at the spot have been sent to PAC headquarters.
SSP Prahlad Narayan Meena stated that departmental negligence during the election disrupted law and order and tarnished the police’s image. He said that since the matter is sub-judice, no officer had spoken openly in the past eight days. Special teams have been deployed to trace and arrest the accused, whether linked to the so-called Raincoat Gang or any political group.
ASI Uday Singh Rana, who was the night officer on duty before the election, and constable Amit Chauhan, who stood inactive during the chaos, were suspended. Meanwhile, one male constable, one woman constable, and a fireman stationed at barricades were shifted to police lines.
Six FIRs have been registered at Tallital police station. An inquiry has been assigned to SP Jagdish Chandra, while video evidence is being reviewed to identify the culprits. SSP Meena urged people to share any video or evidence related to the incident. He assured that arrests will be made and strict action taken against all individuals found guilty, regardless of their political affiliations.
