Announcement of Uttar Pradesh's Acting DGP Expected Today
The announcement of Uttar Pradesh Police's new acting Director General of Police (DGP) is expected later today. Instead of a full-time DGP, the state will once again have an acting DGP, as nominations for the panel have not yet been sent to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). All eyes are on Prashant Kumar, whose term ends today, May 31st.
Sources suggest Prashant Kumar may receive an extension as acting DGP. While official confirmation is pending, discussions continue. Speculation suggests the announcement will be made after Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath returns from his Prayagraj visit.
Why the Focus on Prashant Kumar?
Several IPS officers are retiring on May 31st. The absence of Prashant Kumar's name from the farewell letter issued for retiring officers has fueled speculation that he may receive an extension as acting DGP. This would be the first time an acting DGP receives such an extension. Prashant Kumar is considered a confidante of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, strengthening the likelihood of an extended term.
Other Contenders for DGP
Besides Prashant Kumar, several other senior IPS officers are in the running. Prominent names include:
- MK Bashal
- Tilottama Verma
- Rajiv Krishna
MK Bashal is also being discussed as a potential acting DGP. Tilottama Verma is currently posted at the DGP Training Headquarters and is due to retire in November 2024. Rajiv Krishna is currently the DG Vigilance and Chairman of the Police Recruitment Board, with four years remaining until retirement. Sandeep Sanluke and Renuka Mishra, both 1990 batch IPS officers, are senior in the seniority list, but the focus remains on Prashant Kumar.
Recurring Appointments of Acting DGPs in UP Police
Uttar Pradesh has experienced delays in the DGP selection process for several years, resulting in repeated appointments of acting DGPs. This is primarily due to delays in submitting the panel of senior IPS officers to the central government for the DGP's appointment. The lack of a timely panel means Uttar Pradesh will again rely on an acting DGP.
The Appointment Process
The DGP appointment process requires the state government to send names of senior IPS officers to the UPSC to create a panel. The DGP is then selected from this panel. However, Uttar Pradesh has consistently faced delays in submitting this panel, leaving the appointment of an acting DGP as the only option.
Prashant Kumar's Potential Extension
Sources indicate the Uttar Pradesh government has requested an extension for Prashant Kumar from the central government. Official confirmation is pending. If approved, Prashant Kumar would likely continue as acting DGP.
Prashant Kumar's Tenure and Image
Prashant Kumar is known in UP as a strict and honest officer with a b grip on law and order. His actions have aligned with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's priorities regarding law and order, fulfilling several crucial responsibilities.
