Ajith Kumar Takes Charge as Kerala Excise Commissioner Amid Controversy

Senior IPS officer M R Ajith Kumar has been appointed the new Excise Commissioner for Kerala, confirmed the Chief Minister's office on Monday.

Kumar, a 1995-batch officer, is currently serving as the Additional Director General of Police in Armed Police Battalions. His appointment to the ex-cadre post is effective immediately, as per a government order.

He steps into the role following Mahipal Yadav's extended medical leave. Yadav, initially approved for medical leave, has now been granted a further 40-day commuted leave from July 22 to August 31 due to health reasons. Meanwhile, Ajith Kumar's appointment follows his recent tractor ride controversy at Sabarimala, which received criticism from the Kerala High Court.

(With inputs from agencies.)