Dr. N.C. Asthana, a retired IPS officer and former Director General of Police (DGP) in Kerala, has recently been making headlines for his drastic change in stance and controversial statements. Just six months ago, he wrote an opinion piece criticizing “police brutality” in India. However, he has since shared a video on social media that showed Uttar Pradesh Police personnel allegedly assaulting riot accused individuals, praising it as a “very beautiful scene.”
The video, which is currently under investigation by the UP Police, emerged after protests and violence erupted in various parts of India in response to derogatory remarks made by former BJP spokespersons about Prophet Muhammad. In the context of these events, the video went viral, especially as reports surfaced about the authorities demolishing properties allegedly linked to those involved in the violence.
Asthana, a 1986-batch IPS officer, has posted over two dozen tweets in support of the police actions shown in the video and the demolitions. His tweets allege a conspiracy to discredit India and tarnish its image behind the protests, turning him into a cheerleader for the authorities he previously criticized.
This sudden change in Asthana’s stance has drawn widespread criticism, particularly from fellow members of the civil services. Senior IPS officer Arun Bothra, serving as the Additional Director General of Police (Crime Branch) in Odisha, condemned the alleged custodial violence and requested Asthana not to glorify illegal practices.
Asthana’s tweets have sparked controversy and raised questions about his motives. According to a source close to him, he has discovered sensitive documents related to riots in the country and the ecosystem surrounding them, leading to his change in position.
It is worth noting that this is not the first time Asthana’s remarks have caused controversy. In the past, he has faced criticism for calling his peers and officers “duffers.” Additionally, he has written articles on various topics, including police brutality, right-wing activities, and alleged instances of Muslim bashing.
Dr. N.C. Asthana’s sudden transformation and controversial statements have created a stir within the civil services and the public. The motivations behind his change in stance and the impact of his statements continue to be debated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Who is Dr. NC Asthana?
A: Dr. NC Asthana is a retired IPS officer and former Director General of Police (DGP) in Kerala. He has served in senior positions in the Border Security Force (BSF) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) as well.
Q: What happened to NC Asthana?
A: NC Asthana has recently gained attention for his drastic change in stance and controversial statements. He criticized “police brutality” in an opinion piece but later praised the actions of Uttar Pradesh Police personnel shown in a video allegedly assaulting riot accused individuals.
Q: Why did NC Asthana change his stand?
A: According to a source close to him, Asthana discovered sensitive documents related to riots in the country and the ecosystem surrounding them. This discovery reportedly led to his change in position.
Q: What controversies has NC Asthana been involved in before?
A: Asthana has faced criticism in the past for calling his peers and officers “duffers.” He has also written articles on various topics, including police brutality, right-wing activities, and alleged instances of Muslim bashing.
Q: What is the current response to NC Asthana’s statements?
A: Fellow members of the civil services have criticized Asthana’s recent statements, particularly his alleged glorification of custodial violence. The public and the civil services are engaged in debates surrounding his motives and the impact of his statements.