Intelligence cop in Tamil Nadu on six-year extension

Sources in the State police say due to his command over English and skill in compiling reports, he has been given six one-year extensions.

CHENNAI: A police officer who attained superannuation in 2011, is still in service in the intelligence wing of the State police much to the discontent of junior officers, who feel his presence is hampering their growth and learning opportunities.

Rajendran, a 1976-batch officer of the State police, was in the rank of Additional Superintendent of Police, when he reached superannuation age in 2011. He was involved in compiling intelligence reports to be sent to the Home Department and Chief Minister’s office. Sources in the State police say due to his command over English and skill in compiling reports, he has been given six one-year extensions so far.

“With his skill in English, he has created an impression among senior police officers that he is indispensable,” said a source, wishing not to be named.

When Express contacted Rajendran, he confirmed that he has been given six extensions, but refused to elaborate the reasons behind special treatment. But this is causing discontent among other officers. “He may be good in English. But the department has many other officers who are good in English and can match his skills. It amounts to favouritism to allow one officer to hold a post for this long,” said a senior police officer in the intelligence section.

When asked about reasons for such extensions of service, a retired officer, who was also given extension, said, “There are no strict rules. It is mainly given if the officer has any special skill that cannot be compensated by any other person. It also happens in some cases when an officer is involved in some special investigations and needs to continue in service for the case to reach its logical conclusion.”
A well-known example was AMS Gunaseelan, an officer in the vigilance wing, who was given extension from 2013 to 2016 since he was involved in the investigations of the disproportionate asset case of former chief minister J Jayalalithaa.

Mired in controversy

Granting extension to government officers after superannuation remains a controversial practice as it has been alleged that it deprives officers in service from being considered for further promotions, transfers or appointments But officials also defend the practice, saying it is important that officers with special skills are retained