ECI Reinstates Odisha IPS Officer D S Kutey Recommends Action Against Asish Kumar Singh

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has reinstated senior Odisha IPS officer D S Kutey, previously suspended for “unduly interfering in conduct of election,” and has recommended disciplinary action against Ashish Kumar Singh for misrepresenting his health condition.Kutey, who served as special secretary to the Odisha Chief Minister, was suspended by the ECI on May 28. The Commission also ordered a medical examination for Singh, who had been on medical leave since May 4, by a special medical board at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. The board’s report declared Singh physically and mentally fit, leading the ECI to conclude misrepresentation of facts.In a letter dated June 6 to Odisha’s Chief Electoral Officer, the ECI directed that the AIIMS report be sent to the Chief Secretary for appropriate action against Singh. Kutey’s suspension was revoked immediately, with ongoing adherence to the Commission’s directives from May 28. Any departmental proceedings against Kutey must be conducted with the Commission’s concurrence. He is to report to the Chief Secretary for further posting.