Andhra Pradesh state legislative assembly deputy speaker K Raghu Ramakrishnam Raju on Monday wrote to the Secretary of the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), urging immediate disciplinary action against suspended senior IPS officer PV Sunil Kumar for making what he described as politically provocative, caste-centric public comments.
In his letter, the deputy speaker highlighted Sunil Kumar’s recent statement, suggesting that political power in Andhra Pradesh could be secured if the Kapu and Dalit communities forged unity.
Sunil Kumar’s remarks, which circulated widely on social media, included appeals for cooperation between communities and suggestions that Kapu and Dalit leaders should be fielded for key posts in the upcoming local body elections.
He also urged supporters to work collectively, manage financial resources, and involve women by appointing them as sarpanches or ward members. He suggested bringing multiple caste groups into the political process.
These comments have sparked a statewide debate, given his seniority and the sensitivity around caste politics in Andhra Pradesh.
Raju said these statements —were in clear violation of the All-India Services (AIS) Conduct Rules. He further pointed out that Sunil Kumar had remarked that a leader from the Kapu community could be made chief minister and a Dalit leader could be appointed deputy chief minister.
“This is nothing but political interference and caste mobilisation,” Raju argued.
The deputy speaker questioned how AIS rules could still apply to Sunil Kumar during suspension and expressed concern that the officer’s statements appeared to ignite caste-based sentiments, potentially disturbing political and social harmony.
He urged the Centre to examine the issue urgently and take corrective action, including Sunil Kumar’s immediate removal from service.
