Police officer suspended over allegations of being intoxicated on duty

An Assistant Reserve Sub-Inspector (ARSI) has been suspended with immediate effect in Bengaluru on allegations of being in an intoxicated state and misbehaving with the public while on deployment duty. The suspended officer has been identified as Gopal B. Rathod, attached to the CAR Western Squad.

According to a report by The Hindu, the incident occurred within the jurisdiction of the Annapurneshwari Nagar Police Station. While Gopal B. Rathod was on deployment duty, people raised objections to his behaviour. According to observers, a heated argument ensued as the officer appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. The dispute escalated to the extent that some individuals clashed with the officer, after which he was handed over to the personnel of the Hosahala patrolling police.

People present at the scene also demanded that an alcohol breathalyzer test be conducted to determine whether the officer was intoxicated on duty. A person present during the entire incident recorded the event on a mobile phone. This video was circulated on social media, tagging the Home Minister and the Bengaluru City Police Commissioner, demanding strict action against the officer.

Due to the video going viral on social media and the nature of the incident, an embarrassing situation was created for senior police officers. Taking this into account, senior officials directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) of the concerned area to investigate the matter and take strict measures. Currently, Gopal B. Rathod has been suspended with immediate effect pending the final decision of the departmental inquiry.

There was significant public anger regarding the police officer's behaviour and the allegations of intoxication in this incident. The police department is now conducting an official investigation to ascertain whether the officer was indeed intoxicated.