New DGP Appointed in Tripura Following Anurag Dhankar's Passing
Appointment of New DGP
Newly appointed acting Tripura DGP G S Rao paying his last honours to former DGP Anurag Dhankar (Photo: AT)
Agartala, July 21: In a recent development, the Tripura government has appointed senior IPS officer G S Rao as the acting Director General of Police (DGP) following the unfortunate demise of DGP Anurag Dhankar. Rao confirmed that no Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been established yet to investigate the circumstances surrounding Dhankar's death.
After a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tripura Police Headquarters, the newly appointed DGP-in-charge stated that an investigation is currently in progress.
Rao remarked, "The investigation has commenced. The police are diligently working to uncover the facts related to the incident." When questioned about the formation of an SIT, he noted, "As of now, no special team has been created. However, it would certainly be a more effective approach to handle the case."
According to an official order from the General Administration (Personnel and Training) Department, Rao, who is a 1999-batch IPS officer from the Tripura cadre and currently serves as Additional Director General of Police (Armed Police), has been entrusted with the additional responsibility of DGP (Head of Police Force) effective immediately until further notice.
The order specified that Rao, being the most senior IPS officer in the state following Dhankar's passing, has been tasked with leading the Tripura Police on an interim basis.
Earlier, Chief Minister Manik Saha paid his respects to Dhankar at the Civil Secretariat, assuring that the investigation into the IPS officer's death would be conducted in accordance with legal protocols.
After the ceremony, Saha shared that preliminary reports suggested death by hanging, while the final report is still pending. He explained, "He was found in the bathroom. We awaited the forensic team's arrival. In their absence, the body should not be moved. The forensic team managed the situation."
"An investigation will be carried out as per legal requirements. A police case has also been registered," he added, emphasizing that the government’s immediate focus is to support the grieving family.
Tripura CM Manik Saha paying his last respects at the secretariat premises to the mortal remains of Mr. Anurag Dhayankar (IPS), state DGP (Photo: AT)
The Chief Minister praised Dhankar as an exceptionally skilled police officer, acknowledging his contributions to enhancing the state's law and order.
"I had complete trust in him. His presence allowed me to feel secure regarding law and order. His professional accomplishments are recognized by all," Saha stated.
Reflecting on their last meeting, the Chief Minister mentioned that they had attended the Tripura Police passing-out parade on July 18, where they discussed various matters.
"Our thoughts and condolences are with the bereaved family," he expressed.
However, the Chief Minister refrained from commenting on allegations made by opposition parties concerning the incident.
The remains of the 1994-batch IPS officer will be transported to his hometown in Uttar Pradesh for the final rites. The Tripura Police announced that the funeral is scheduled for 9 am on July 22 at Gandhi Road in Baraut, Baghpat district.
Numerous senior police officials, including IG (Law and Order) Manchak Ipper, SP (Traffic) Kanta Jangir, and the Commandant of the TSR 2nd Battalion, are expected to attend the funeral.