Basant Kumar Rath who was the IGP Traffic, J&K was however transferred and attached in the office of commandant general, Home guards/ Civil Defense/SDRF.
According to an order under number 1552-Home of 2018, dated 13-11-2018, “Alok Kumar, IPS (JK-1997), IGP Security, J&K is transferred and posted as IGP, Traffic, J&K vice Basant Kumar Rath.”
It further adds that “Basant Kumar Rath, IPS (JK-2000), IGP Traffic J&K transferred and attached in the office of commandant general, Home guards/ Civil Defense/SDRF till further orders.”
Social media was abuzz with rumours about the transfer of Basant from Monday evening. But there was no official word about it till Tuesday evening. His transfer drew reaction from netizens including former director general of police SP Vaid, who appreciated him for his integrity.
Rath is popular among people in the Valley especially youth. He has become a social media sensation for strict enforcement of traffic laws on roads. The 2000-batch IPS officer is known for sparing none including politicians. This has earned him ire of the powerful lobby, who are all fire against him.
Last week, he hit at newly elected Srinagar Mayor Junaid Azim Mattu on Twitter telling him traffic management was not his domain. This fueled speculation that Sajad Lone-led Peoples Conferences which is close to BJP might put some pressure for Rath’s removal from the top post.
