Behind the Scenes: Why Jharkhand DGP Gupta Stepped Down

The recent resignation of Jharkhand DGP Anurag Gupta is shrouded in controversy, stemming from his removal from ACB oversight on September 19th. This action is strongly linked to the liquor scam and the alleged involvement of senior IAS officer Vinay Choubey. Choubey, who faced arrest in the liquor scam and is currently in jail for a land scam, was released on bail after the ACB, then under Gupta’s purview, missed the chargesheet deadline. The government faced severe criticism for this lapse and reportedly held Gupta responsible. This incident fueled speculation about Gupta’s administrative capabilities and led to unease among IAS officers. The article foresaw this outcome, predicting that Gupta’s defiance would have consequences. This forced resignation contrasts sharply with the government’s prior efforts to retain Gupta, including legislative changes and a two-year extension of his service, suggesting a major rift. Allegations of arbitrary governance and corruption are cited as driving forces behind the demand for his resignation. The arrest of Vinay Singh, a businessman implicated in the Hazaribagh land scam alongside Choubey, and his alleged high-level connections are also seen as contributing factors. The state government has now appointed T. Mishra as the acting DGP, making history as Jharkhand’s first female police chief and opting for her over more senior candidates.