In line of fire, SP Karnik may prefer transfer

Inquiry into police shooting on farmers underway, officer said to be camping in Mumbai to make his transfer come through

In line of fire, SP Karnik may prefer transfer

Inquiry into police shooting on farmers underway, officer said to be camping in Mumbai to make his transfer come through

Amid the ongoing inquiry on the police firing in Maval that killed three farmers, Superintendent of Police Sandip Karniku00a0-- who was blamed for the incident manyu00a0-- has reportedly filed an application requesting transfer.

Cause and effect: Police firing on agitating farmers in Maval killed
three people on August 9, with Superintendent of Police Sandip Karniku00a0
facing flak for it in the aftermath of the incident. File Pic

Sources in the home ministry said that it was likely the request would be accepted, considering the ongoing inquiry headed by a retired high court judge. Highly placed sources said Karnik's application could be approved, as it would eliminate chances of interference, if any, by the top cop.

Sources in Mantralaya said Karnik has been camping in Mumbai for the last two days. When MiD DAY contacted Special I G (Kolhapur) Tukaram Chavan, he said, "I am not aware of this. Decision of transfers of inspectors and those of higher designation is taken by the Home Ministry."

Sources said that Karnik requested transfer on Tuesday and is yet to get a nod from the government. When contacted Minister of State for Home Satej Patil refused to comment on the issue. Karnik was blamed for the police firing in Maval, which resulted in the death of three farmers and injured 12.

Opposition leaders who visited Maval demanded his transfer. Sources said Karnik took the decision to stay away from his current post until the inquiry is complete. SP Karnik was unavailable for comment.

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