Delhi Police ACP Suspended After Personnel's Protest Over Transfer Orders

Delhi Police Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Manasvi Vashistha has been suspended following his participation in a protest by police personnel outside the Delhi Police Headquarters against the transfer of two officers. The suspension, ordered by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Monday evening, has intensified the controversy surrounding tensions between the police and the legal fraternity.

The dispute originated from a confrontation at Shahdara police station on October 23, involving police personnel and lawyers. Advocate Lalit Bansal allegedly sustained a serious head injury during the incident. Lawyers subsequently raised allegations against Vashistha, including claims that he threatened them by displaying his service revolver. These allegations triggered protests and an indefinite strike by lawyers in Delhi's district courts.

Following discussions between police officials and representatives of the legal fraternity, Vashistha was transferred from the Gandhi Nagar subdivision to the Special Police Unit for Women and Children (SPUWAC) on October 28. Shahdara Station House Officer (SHO) Inspector Arun Kumar was also transferred to the Delhi Police Security branch. However, the transfers triggered dissatisfaction among sections of the police force.

On November 2, police personnel gathered outside the headquarters, demanding the revocation of the transfer orders and reinstatement of the two officers. Reports said around 80–100 personnel initially assembled, with approximately 500 later attending a meeting with senior officials. The protesters also raised concerns about working conditions, promotions, housing facilities and the need for a grievance-redressal mechanism.

The MHA suspended Vashistha under Rule 10 of the Central Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1965, stating that departmental proceedings against him were contemplated. The order did not specify the precise grounds for the proposed proceedings. He was directed to remain in Delhi during the suspension period and seek permission before leaving.

Meanwhile, the Rohini Court Bar Association withdrew its November 3 work boycott following the suspension. The Delhi High Court also asked lawyers seeking action over Vashistha's alleged remarks to submit a formal petition with supporting material.