Mangaluru: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Shashikumar, who was appointed to head the Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed to reinvestigate the Soujanya case in Dharmasthala, has reportedly been relieved of his responsibilities for personal reasons.
Although Shashikumar has been relieved of his SIT duties, an official government order confirming the change is yet to be issued.
According to reports, Shashikumar had submitted a request to Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, seeking to be relieved of his responsibilities as head of the investigation team.
His reported exit comes as the SIT continues its assignment to reinvestigate the Soujanya case, which has remained a matter of public attention in Karnataka.
New SIT chief likely to be appointed
Sources indicate that senior police officers Laburam or Chetan Singh Rathore may be considered for appointment as the new head of the SIT.
However, the appointment has not yet been formally announced. The official order is awaited, and the final decision on the new team leadership will be known once the government issues the necessary notification.
The change in leadership is expected to be accompanied by other police personnel changes connected with the investigation team.
Changes among other police officers expected
An order transferring Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Venkatesh Prasanna is also expected, according to senior sources.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Srinidhi is likely to replace him.
These proposed changes, like the appointment of the new SIT chief, are yet to be formally confirmed through official orders.
The developments indicate a possible restructuring of the police team handling the reinvestigation. Further clarity is expected after the government issues the transfer and appointment orders.