The IAS officer reportedly handed over his mobile phone to investigators after performing a complete factory reset.
Published Nov 06, 2024 | 1:52 PM ⚊ Updated Nov 06, 2024 | 1:52 PM
Kerala IAS officer K Gopalakrishnan. (X)
Questioned by Cyber Police on Wednesday, 6 November, Kerala Industries Department Secretary K Gopalakrishnan IAS maintained that his WhatsApp was hacked.
However, sources within the police department have voiced doubts, noting that Gopalakrishnan only reported the alleged hacking after a WhatsApp group – “Mallu Hindu Officers” – gained significant media attention. The group was allegedly created using his WhatsApp number, with the IAS officer as the admin and exclusively comprised Hindu officers.
Further fueling suspicions, Gopalakrishnan reportedly handed over his mobile phone to investigators after performing a complete factory reset. Erasing all the data before handing over the phone has raised eyebrows within the investigation team.
According to police sources, preliminary findings suggest it was Gopalakrishnan who created the controversial WhatsApp group, though conclusive digital evidence is pending.
To substantiate their suspicions, Kerala police have requested data from WhatsApp and the network service provider, including the IP address and network tower data from when the group was created, as well as any signs of malicious activity on the device.
Adding another layer to the investigation, police are examining allegations that the IAS officer may have attempted to curry favour with certain groups by playing the “Hindu card,” potentially to secure a high-profile position on central deputation.
It is learnt that the group led to swift backlash as officers voiced concerns about the group, viewing it as a violation of the All India Services (Conduct) Rules 1968, which underscored the need for upholding secular values. The group was allegedly deleted within hours of creation.
Responding to the controversy, Kerala Industries Minister P Rajeev had said that divisions on the basis of religion are a “serious matter.”
Speaking with media persons at Delhi, he said, “The government will investigate it. There is a general code of conduct regarding public administration. An investigation will be conducted based on that.Only after that, further comments could be made on this issue.”
(Edited by Neena with inputs from Dileep V Kumar)
