Inspector, 12 Sub-Inspectors Suspended Over Irregularities in Road Accident Insurance Probes

Thirteen police officers, including one inspector and twelve sub-inspectors, have been suspended following a Special Investigation Team (SIT) inquiry that uncovered serious irregularities in road accident probes linked to insurance claims. The investigation revealed that some officers deliberately manipulated case records, allegedly causing financial losses to insurance companies by altering critical details in accident reports.

The suspended officers are stationed across three districts: Gonda, Bahraich, and Shravasti. Two officers each from Gonda and Shravasti, and nine from Bahraich, were included in the suspension list. The disciplinary action comes after the SIT determined that investigators conducted flawed and misleading inquiries in certain motor accident cases to secure favorable outcomes for insurance claims.

Sources indicated that some investigators went as far as substituting the actual vehicles involved in accidents with others and naming pre-selected individuals as accused, rather than those actually responsible. These manipulations, according to the SIT, were intended to influence insurance payouts, raising serious concerns about the integrity of the investigative process.

The matter surfaced after a complaint by ICICI Lombard General Insurance nearly a year ago. The complaint flagged discrepancies in multiple accident-related cases, alleging that police case diaries were being tailored to produce specific results, adversely affecting insurance assessments and compensation.

Following the complaint, senior police authorities formed a Special Investigation Team to re-examine accident cases across the three districts. The SIT reviewed charge sheets, vehicle inspection reports, witness statements, and site documentation. In several cases, the team found that earlier investigations had misidentified vehicles and named incorrect accused individuals. Fresh investigations corrected these records, and revised findings were submitted to the courts.

Disciplinary action against the officers was initiated after they were found prima facie guilty of professional misconduct and procedural violations. Sources suggest that the irregularities may reflect a coordinated pattern rather than isolated lapses. Investigators are now probing whether intermediaries or external agents influenced the manipulation of investigations.

The case has prompted broader scrutiny of accident investigations, particularly those involving insurance claims, where financial incentives can compromise the process. Police authorities have indicated that further departmental inquiries and potential criminal proceedings could follow, along with recovery actions if financial losses are formally established.

Officials emphasized that the case highlights the importance of internal oversight mechanisms, like SITs, in identifying systemic lapses and ensuring accountability. Steps are being taken to strengthen monitoring of insurance-linked accident investigations and enhance verification protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.