Cop who offered Raj rose held guilty of misconduct

Cop who offered Raj rose held guilty of misconduct

The departmental inquiry ordered against police constable Pramod Tawde, who had offered a flower to Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray during his rally at Azad Maidan, has been concluded. The inquiry report found Tawde guilty of professional misconduct and breach of discipline. Moreover, the report also stated that Tawde has political ambitions, sources said. The inquiry report recommends strict action against him so that such incidents should not be repeated in future. According to police sources, additional commissioner of police, local arms, Vijay Chavan had conducted the inquiry and has submitted his report to the top brass of the city police. Tawde, who is attached with the wireless department of the city police, had offered Raj a rose in front of a packed crowd and senior police officers at the rally. Firstly, the questions were raised about how police handled the situation during the August 11 Azad Maidan riots and later the Tawde incident had created a huge controversy. Senior MNS members had also greeted Tawde on the stage on the day of the rally, indicating that the entire episode could be pre-planned, police sources said. “Tawde had also given examination for MNS candidate for civic elections; this clearly shows that he had political ambitions. Tawde had left his wireless office three hours prior to the rally without informing his superiors and breached the security of a politician resulting in misconduct. This is a major security breach issue as someone can wear a police uniform and can try to breach the security and commit an offense. Tawde was heard during the inquiry on three occasions after which he was found guilty,” said a police officer. The superior officers will now have to decide as to what action should be taken against Tawde. The top brass confirmed that the report has been submitted but refused to comment.