New Delhi, April 27: Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Khajan Singh, an Arjuna Awardee and former national swimming champion, has been found guilty of sexual harassment of female colleagues. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved his dismissal from service based on the recommendation of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

Singh, who held the position of chief sports officer in the CRPF, was investigated following allegations of misconduct by women personnel within the paramilitary force. As per an NDTV report, Singh, a silver medalist at the 1986 Seoul Asian Games, faces charges of sexually harassing women under his command. The CRPF initiated an enquiry into the matter, leading to Singh's suspension in 2021. Despite being reinstated later, the UPSC's recommendation for his dismissal has now prompted the issuance of a notice to him. CRPF Officer Deployed at IB Director's Residence in Delhi Allegedly Shoots Himself Dead With Service Gun, No Suicide Note Recovered.

A group of women constables accused Singh of misusing his authority to sexually harass, abuse, and threaten them, as reported by The Print. In December 2018, a wrestler from the CRPF filed a complaint against him with the Delhi Police, alleging inappropriate behaviour and exploitation. Although acquitted in a rape case in 2021, following the woman's retraction of allegations, Singh's dismissal stems from substantiated allegations of misconduct. Khajan Singh, Senior CRPF Officer & Arjuna Awardee, Suspended Over Accusations of Sexual Harassment, Rape & Intimidation.

The CRPF, which inducted women into combat ranks in 1986 and has since expanded their presence in various roles, took decisive action in response to the complaints. An Internal Complaints Committee was formed to investigate the allegations, resulting in the recommendation for Singh's dismissal. Singh, who also runs the Khajan Singh Swimming Academy in Delhi, has been given 15 days to respond to the dismissal notice.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 27, 2024 09:39 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).