Govt. initiates fresh disciplinary action against A.B. Venkateswara Rao

It calls for explanation for ‘derogatory comments’ against investigating officers

The State government has decided to take fresh disciplinary action against IPS officer A.B. Venkateswara Rao, who is under suspension for misconduct, under Rule 8 of the All India Services (Discipline & Appeal) Rules, 1969. It directed Mr. Rao to submit a written statement of his defence and mention whether he desires to be heard in person, within 30 days of the receipt of the order, for giving an explanation on the ‘derogatory comments and accusations’ made by him against the officers who are investigating the irregularities allegedly committed by him in the procurement of aerostat and unmanned aerial vehicle for the Police Department when he was the Additional DGP (intelligence). According to G.O. Rt No.767, issued by Chief Secretary Aditya Nath Das on Sunday, an enquiry will be held only in respect of those articles of charge which are not admitted, if it is considered necessary.