The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Sunday (April 20, 2026) ordered the transfer of KA Senthil Velan (IPS:2003:TN), Inspector General of Police (Intelligence), and appointed IG (Technical Services) A Avinash Kumar (IPS:2004:TN) in his place.
The poll panel also directed Chief Secretary M Sai Kumar not to assign Senthilvelan to any election-related responsibilities.
Complying with the directive, Home Secretary K Manivasan issued an order appointing A Avinash Kumar as IG (Intelligence), and he has assumed charge. Avinash Kumar has prior experience on deputation with the Intelligence Bureau.
The move comes amid ongoing administrative changes initiated by the ECI following the announcement of the Assembly election schedule on March 15.
Since then, several senior officials have been transferred, including Chief Secretary N Muruganandam, DGP G Venkataraman, and Home Secretary Dheeraj Kumar, as part of efforts to ensure free and fair elections in the state.
