Jharkhand Police Association Demands Action Against Bokaro SP Over Missing Girl Case
In a significant development following the suspension of all 28 personnel from Pindrajora police station in Bokaro district, the Jharkhand Police Association (JPA) has called for the suspension of Superintendent of Police Harvinder Singh. The JPA alleges that SP Singh also failed in his duties regarding the investigation into the disappearance of an 18-year-old girl in July 2025.
Background of the Case and Police Suspensions
The controversy stems from the case of Pushpa Mahto, who went missing on July 21, 2025. After months of perceived inaction, the police traced her skeletal remains on Saturday, following intervention by the high court. The authorities arrested 26-year-old Dinesh Kumar Mahto, her former boyfriend, on charges of murder.
In response to the high court's directives, Bokaro SP Harvinder Singh suspended all 28 personnel of Pindrajora police station on Sunday, citing lax investigation and allegations of bribery. SP Singh stated that an internal probe revealed the accused was shielded after police accepted bribes in cash and kind for socializing.
JPA's Formal Statement and Demands
The Jharkhand Police Association reacted strongly to the mass suspension, issuing a formal statement on Monday. JPA president Rahul Kumar Murmu argued that the action against the entire police station staff was unprecedented and unfairly targeted lower-ranking officials to protect higher authorities.
Murmu emphasized, "We demand that innocent cops must immediately be brought out of suspension. Most importantly, the SP happens to be the chief of the district police force. How come his accountability isn't fixed in this case? Should he be regularly monitoring the cases under his jurisdiction?"
He added that such actions are demotivating for the force and called for the government to suspend SP Singh as well. The JPA plans to meet with the Director General of Police to discuss the matter and decide on future actions.
Allegations from the Victim's Family
The victim's mother, Rekha Devi, has accused the local police station and its in-charge of botching the investigation to save the accused, which she believes led to her daughter's murder. She noted that the police only began pursuing the case seriously after she filed a habeas corpus petition in the high court in February this year.
Implications for Police Accountability
This incident highlights ongoing issues of accountability within the Jharkhand police force. The JPA's demand underscores a broader concern about whether disciplinary actions are applied equitably across all ranks. As the case unfolds, it raises questions about supervision and responsibility in high-profile investigations.
The situation remains fluid, with potential meetings between the JPA and senior police officials expected to shape the outcome. The public and media are closely watching for further developments in this case of alleged negligence and corruption.
