MANDI (Munish Sood)
In a significant development, the Himachal Pradesh High Court on Friday directed IPS officer Ilma Afroz to continue as the Superintendent of Police (SP) in Baddi.
The high court’s decision came after the state government failed to present a panel of three IPS officers for the position, as previously directed by the court. The case has been adjourned for the next hearing on February 28, 2025, with the high court maintaining the status quo in the interim.
Panel of three eligible officers not submitted
A bench comprising Chief Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia and Justice Satyen Vaidya expressed dissatisfaction with the state government’s inability to provide the names of three eligible officers for the crucial role. The court reiterated its directive to maintain the status quo, ensuring that Ilma Afroz continues her duties as SP in Baddi.
Advocate RL Chaudhary, representing the petitioner, highlighted that Afroz holds a stay order in her favour, which legally supports her continuation in the post.
Profile of Ilma Afroz
Ilma Afroz, a highly accomplished IPS officer, hails from Kundarki in Uttar Pradesh. A graduate of St Stephen’s College, Delhi, she later earned a scholarship to pursue higher studies at the University of Oxford.
Despite lucrative global opportunities, Afroz chose to return to India to serve her country, clearing the Civil Services Examination to join the Indian Police Service.
Challenges in posting in Baddi
As the SP of Baddi, one of Asia’s largest industrial regions, Afroz oversees law enforcement in a region critical to Himachal Pradesh’s economy. Baddi-Barotiwala-Nalagarh (BBN) houses over 3,100 industrial units, generating an annual turnover of Rs 60,000 crore.
The area’s importance makes the role of SP both demanding and vital for maintaining law and order.
Government’s response awaited
The Himachal Pradesh government is now under pressure to provide a robust response in the next hearing.
It is expected to present a panel of officers or justify its inability to do so. The case underscores the challenges of administrative appointments and the judiciary’s role in ensuring transparency and accountability.
While the court has ensured stability in Baddi for now, the delay in providing alternatives may have broader political and administrative repercussions. The spotlight remains on the Sukhu government as it navigates this sensitive issue amidst increasing scrutiny.
