A police constable from Madhya Pradesh has come under scrutiny after it was discovered that he received his salary for twelve years without reporting for duty or completing his basic police training. The matter has raised serious questions about the state’s administrative oversight and the functioning of the police department.

The constable, who hails from Vidisha district, was selected for the Madhya Pradesh Police in 2011. After his recruitment, he was posted to the Bhopal Police Lines and was subsequently sent for basic training at the Sagar Police Training Centre. However, instead of joining the training programme, he returned to his hometown and did not report back to any police station or training centre. He sent his service file to Bhopal by post, claiming illness, but did not follow up with any official leave application or medical certificate.

For over a decade, the constable’s absence went unnoticed by the authorities. His name continued to appear on the official rolls, and his monthly salary was credited to his bank account as usual. Reports suggest that he received between ₹28 lakh and ₹35 lakh over the twelve-year period. The irregularity came to light only in 2023, when officials were conducting a routine review of the 2011 recruitment batch for pay grade revisions. During this process, it was found that there was no record of the constable’s attendance, training, or any police work.

Administrative Negligence

When confronted, the constable admitted that he had not reported for duty since his recruitment. He cited mental health issues and produced some documents to support his claim. He has agreed to return the salary he received and has already refunded a small amount, promising to pay back the remaining sum in instalments. The police department has suspended him and initiated a departmental inquiry, led by Assistant Commissioner of Police Ankita Khaterkar. The inquiry is also investigating how such a lapse could occur and whether other officers were negligent in their duties.

Senior police officials have assured that strict action will be taken against anyone found responsible for this administrative failure. The case has highlighted the need for stronger monitoring systems and regular verification of staff attendance in government departments. It has also sparked a debate about accountability and transparency within the police force.

As the investigation continues, authorities are determined to ensure that such incidents are not repeated. The case has attracted widespread attention and serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in public service.