Deputy Inspector General (DIG) D Magesh Kumar, who was suspended earlier this year over sexual harassment allegations, has now been appointed DIG, Coastal Security Group, Chennai. This reassignment comes after his suspension was lifted in April based on the recommendations of the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), which reportedly found no grounds for further action following a conciliation.

Magesh Kumar had been under suspension since February, when a woman traffic constable accused him of sexual and physical harassment during his tenure as Joint Commissioner of Police (North), Greater Chennai Police. Following the complaint, Tamil Nadu DGP Shankar Jiwal ordered an inquiry, and the officer was placed in Vacancy Reserve at the police chief’s office.

Amid the probe, Kumar’s wife, a former sub-inspector, accused the complainant of attempting to extort ₹25 lakh from her husband, alleging that the sexual harassment claim was fabricated. CCTV footage was cited in her defense.

A Vishaka Committee, led by DGP Seema Agarwal, was constituted to look into the matter. The ICC later concluded that no further disciplinary action was necessary, paving the way for Kumar’s reinstatement and subsequent posting.

He now replaces R Jayanthi, who has been transferred as DIG, Technical Services, Chennai.

The decision has stirred debate over transparency and accountability in handling sexual misconduct allegations within the police force.\