A routine grievance redressal meeting in Haryana’s Kaithal district took an unexpected turn when a sharp confrontation broke out between Power Minister Anil Vij and Kaithal SP Upasana. The exchange, captured on video, quickly spread across social media platforms and sparked a debate over administrative authority and political oversight.
The incident unfolded during a District Grievance Redressal Committee meeting on Friday, where officials were reviewing public complaints. The matter under discussion was an alleged land purchase fraud case in which a complainant accused an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) of cheating him. As the issue was being addressed, Minister Vij directed the SP to immediately suspend the concerned police officer, asserting that strict action was necessary to ensure fairness in the investigation.
“Suspend the policeman,” Vij said firmly, according to the viral footage.
However, SP Upasana responded calmly that she did not have the authority to suspend the officer. She clarified that the ASI was currently posted in Kurukshetra district and that the power to suspend him lay with the Kurukshetra SP, not with her. Her response appeared to trigger a sharp reaction from the minister.
“What do you mean you don’t have the power?” Vij questioned, expressing visible displeasure. As the exchange intensified, he reportedly told the SP to leave the meeting if she did not have the authority to act. The tension in the room rose noticeably, with senior officials and attendees witnessing the heated dialogue.
District Commissioner Aparajita stepped in to defuse the situation and calm both sides. Despite the mounting pressure, SP Upasana maintained her stance, reiterating that jurisdictional limits prevented her from suspending an officer posted outside her district. She emphasized that any such decision would need to be taken by the competent authority in Kurukshetra.
Minister Vij, however, insisted that action be formally recorded. He directed that the ASI remain suspended during the inquiry, alleging that the officer had attempted to influence the case. He also instructed officials to write to the Director General of Police (DGP) regarding the matter and reportedly directed that a case be registered against the ASI.
The underlying case revolves around an alleged land fraud complaint. According to officials, the matter has since been transferred to Karnal for further investigation. The complainant claims that he was cheated in a land transaction and has accused the ASI of involvement in the alleged misconduct.
The viral video of the confrontation has drawn mixed reactions from the public. Some viewers have supported the minister’s demand for swift and decisive action, arguing that public confidence in law enforcement depends on accountability. Others have backed the SP’s position, noting that administrative procedures and jurisdictional rules must be respected to ensure lawful governance.
The episode highlights the delicate balance between political leadership and administrative authority. While elected representatives are expected to push for transparency and accountability, police officials operate within defined legal frameworks and service rules. When these boundaries collide in public forums, tensions can quickly surface.
As of now, higher authorities are expected to examine the matter and determine the appropriate course of action. The incident has once again brought into focus the complexities of governance, chain of command, and the importance of clear institutional roles within Haryana’s administrative system.