Karnataka: Controversy erupts as suspended police constable awarded Chief Minister’s medal

Mysuru:  On the occasion of the 78th Independence Day, celebrations were held across the nation with great fervor. As part of the festivities, 126 police officers and staff members from Karnataka who had demonstrated exemplary service were honored with the prestigious Chief Minister’s Medal for the year 2023. However, one particular awardee has sparked significant debate and controversy the suspended Head Constable of the Mysore CCB unit, Salim Pasha.

The controversy stems from the fact that Salim Pasha, who was suspended just a month ago, has been included in the list of medal recipients. His suspension was the result of serious allegations, including the leak of sensitive documents, connections with individuals accused in criminal cases, and indirect involvement in the theft of public property. These accusations led to an internal investigation, during which it was reportedly found that Pasha had been in contact with the relatives of suspects in cases of theft and drug-related offenses under the jurisdictions of Metagalli and Vijayanagar police stations.

During the investigation, evidence surfaced indicating that Pasha had communicated with the accused and their families via mobile phone, leading to his suspension on July 12, 2024, under the State Police (Disciplinary Proceedings). Despite these findings, Pasha’s name appeared on the Chief Minister’s Medal list for his performance in 2023, a decision that has left many questioning the integrity of the award process.

The decision to award Pasha has not only stirred controversy within the police force but has also drawn sharp criticism from political leaders.   BJP state president BY Vijayendra has expressed his anger at the government for including the name of a suspended police constable in the Chief Minister’s medal list.

He said in X post that the name of a suspended police constable from Mysuru has been published in the Chief Minister’s medal list. Salim Pasha, a constable who was included in the medal list, was suspended on charges of colluding with criminals, assisting in thefts, and leaking departmental documents—actions that are considered treasonous.

“This Congress government turns a blind eye when it comes to certain names of  individuals,” Vijayendra stated. “The inclusion of a suspended police constable from Mysuru in the ‘Chief Minister’s Medal’ list on Independence Day proves that there is no concern for criminals, thieves, or even terrorists.”

. BJP MLA Basavana Gowda Patil Yatnal was quick to condemn the government’s decision, taking to social media platform ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) to express his dismay. “Police constable Salim Pasha of Mysore CCB unit is facing serious charges, including being in contact with the accused and involvement in the theft of public property. Yet, the Chief Minister’s Medal has been awarded to him. What message does this send to the honest, hardworking officers? The government owes an explanation to the people of Karnataka,” Yatnal posted.

He further demanded that the criteria for selecting medal recipients be made transparent and called for the immediate revocation of Pasha’s award. “If medals are given to those under investigation for serious misconduct, what will happen to the morale of the police force? The medal should be returned, and the investigation against Pasha should be expedited,” Yatnal insisted.

As the controversy continues to brew, the state government has remained largely silent on the issue, further fueling public speculation and distrust. The lack of a clear response or explanation from the authorities has only added to the calls for greater transparency in the selection process for such honors.

For now, the spotlight remains on how the government will address the situation and whether it will reconsider the decision to award Pasha. The incident has not only cast a shadow over the Independence Day celebrations but has also brought to the forefront the critical issue of accountability and ethics within the police force.

In the broader context, this controversy serves as a reminder of the need for robust checks and balances in recognizing and rewarding public servants, ensuring that such honors are reserved for those who truly embody the values of integrity and service. As the debate continues, all eyes will be on the government’s next move and its potential impact on the morale and credibility of the Karnataka police force.