Fresh tensions have erupted within the Karnataka police force as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Vartika Katiyar publicly accused her superior, Inspector General (IG) D Roopa Moudgil, of orchestrated misconduct. The allegations involve Moudgil allegedly facilitating the unauthorized access of confidential documents within Katiyar's office, raising serious concerns about internal governance and accountability.
Katiyar, who is part of the 2010 IPS batch, filed her accusations formally on February 20, 2025, with Karnataka Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh and copied Director General of Police (DGP) Alok Mohan. The dispute extends back to September 6, 2024, when Katiyar contends two police personnel entered her chamber without her knowledge. According to her complaint, Head Constable Manjunath T.S. and Home Guard Mallikarjun acted under Moudgil’s instructions, who is the senior officer from the 2000 IPS batch.
Katiyar claims these constables accessed her office using keys obtained from the Control Room during her absence. They allegedly placed files inside her chamber, took photographs, and even shared these images via WhatsApp. Katiyar expressed her frustrations by stating, "I came to know about the matter recently… several (such) incidents… may have taken place in the past, but this has come to my notice. If anything wrong happens, D Roopa will be directly responsible." This statement reflects not only her discontent but her concerns over future misconduct.
Moudgil's response to these allegations remains unclear, as Katiyar's attempts to reach her have not received replies. Following her accusations, the Karnataka government enacted her transfer to the position of additional commandant general for home guards and civil defense, signaling potential disciplinary actions prompted by her whistleblowing.
The acknowledgment of Katiyar's situation raises questions about the practices within the Karnataka police department. Critics may point to the need for transparency and protection for officers who come forward with grievances. Katiyar’s experience is made all the more poignant by the fact it exemplifies the power struggles within the police force—emphasized by Moudgil's previous public disputes, including one with IAS officer Rohini Sindhuri last year.
Reportedly, Katiyar believes her transfer is indicative of targeted behavior from Moudgil, who, according to Katiyar, threatened to ruin her annual performance review as repercussions for her actions. Katiyar's complaint not only highlights errant behavior allegedly conducted by Moudgil but also raises alarms concerning the systemic issues plaguing internal operations of the police.
Given the contentious history surrounding D Roopa, one must ponder the broader repercussions of this incident on the police force's structure. Moudgil’s track record of public altercations—including past legal battles—exacerbates the stakes at play. Observers of the Karnataka police can draw parallels to how these disputes impact the perception of law enforcement and the principles of accountability envisaged within it.
Each development raises the pressing issue of power dynamics between officers and the overall culture of governance within the Karnataka police. When Katiyar states, "This unauthorized access… is a serious and inexcusable offence," the veracity of her claim brings to light the significant concerns about security, professionalism, and mutual respect required for effective law enforcement.
Moving forward, the Karnataka police department finds itself at a crossroads. How they address these allegations will resonate beyond the individuals involved, impacting the integrity of the organization as a whole. The pressing need for reform and accountability is now more apparent than ever as both Moudgil and Katiyar navigate the turbulent waters of police bureaucracy.
The situation continues to evolve, and as the Karnataka government investigates the allegations, the eyes of the public remain fixated on the outcomes. Both officers must now confront their respective futures within the framework of law enforcement, where the balance between duty and personal ambition often collides. The stakes have never been higher for Katiyar, Moudgil, and the Karnataka police as they seek to redefine their narrative moving forward.