Assam Police Service (APS) officer Raj Mohan Ray faced the ultimate consequence of dismissal from service due to “misconduct” during his tenure as Superintendent of Police in Darrang, Assam. Director General of Police (DGP) GP Singh officially announced the dismissal.
Background of Misconduct
Ray’s dismissal is rooted in a distressing 2022 case involving the rape and murder of a minor domestic helper, with allegations of a subsequent cover-up by police officials.
The dismissal, effective April 1, 2024, underscores Assam’s zero-tolerance policy towards police malpractice. This action not only terminates Ray’s current service but also disqualifies him from future government employment.
In 2022, a harrowing incident unfolded in Dhula, Darrang district, where a 13-year-old domestic worker fell victim to rape and murder at the hands of her employer, identified as SSB personnel Krishna Kamal Baruah.
Initially reported as suicide, a comprehensive investigation was initiated by the state government, revealing disturbing attempts to conceal the crime.
Three senior police officers, including Ray, an executive magistrate, and three doctors from Mangaldai Civil Hospital, were implicated in misleading the probe and shielding Baruah from justice.
Ray, along with Additional SP Rupam Phukan, and Sub-Inspector Utpal Bora, faced suspension initially. Ray and the magistrate, Ashirbad Hazarika, who were absconding, later surrendered, while the other implicated individuals were arrested.
The doctors accused in the case allegedly provided falsified post-mortem reports, exacerbating the attempts to mask the heinous crime.
