West Bengal government has suspended an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and four other police personnel over separate allegations, including the controversial handling of a Kali idol during a protest in Kakdwip in October 2025.

Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced the disciplinary action on Saturday, saying the officers were suspended over allegations of misconduct, excessive use of force, and actions that allegedly hurt religious sentiments.

IPS Officer Suspended Over Kakdwip Incident

According to the state government, the suspended IPS officer, who was serving as the Superintendent of Police of Sundarban Police District at the time, allegedly ordered a lathi charge on protesters after a Goddess Kali idol was reportedly desecrated during Kali Puja in Kakdwip, South 24 Parganas.

The officer is also accused of placing the damaged idol into a prison van and taking it to a police station, an action that sparked widespread public criticism and political controversy.

The incident became a major political issue in West Bengal, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), then in the opposition, accusing the then Trinamool Congress (TMC) government of mishandling the situation.

Four Other Police Officers Also Suspended

The state government also suspended four additional police personnel from different districts over separate allegations.

Among them:

• A former Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) from Kaliaganj Police Station faces an FIR after allegedly shooting a person during an investigation.
• A former inspector from Nadia is facing departmental proceedings over alleged derogatory remarks that reportedly hurt religious sentiments.
• Two other former police officers from Kolkata Police and other districts have also been suspended over allegations of misconduct and abuse of authority.

Government Orders Departmental Action

The government said disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against the officers concerned, while criminal action has also been launched where applicable.

Officials said the actions are part of efforts to ensure accountability within the police force and address complaints related to misconduct and public trust.

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Political Background

The Kakdwip Kali idol controversy triggered widespread protests in 2025 and became a flashpoint in West Bengal politics.

The suspension of the officers comes months after the incident, with the state government now taking administrative action in response to the allegations.