Fresh uncertainty has emerged over the appointment of West Bengal's next Director General of Police, with the Union Public Service Commission moving the Delhi High Court on Tuesday. The UPSC has challenged a recent order from the Central Administrative Tribunal that had directed the completion of the DGP selection process in Bengal by January 31st.
Timeline Complications and Key Retirements
The CAT, while hearing a petition filed by senior IPS officer Rajesh Kumar, had issued specific directives to streamline the selection process. The tribunal ordered the state government to submit its proposals to UPSC by January 23rd. Furthermore, it mandated UPSC to convene a crucial meeting on January 28th, prepare the necessary panel of candidates, and forward this list to the state authorities by January 29th.
This timeline becomes particularly significant as three senior police officers are scheduled to retire on January 31st. Acting DGP Rajeev Kumar, who currently holds the position, will complete his tenure on this date. Additionally, IPS officers Rajesh Kumar and Jag Mohan, both holding DG-rank positions, are also due to retire simultaneously, creating an urgent need for leadership transition within the state police hierarchy.
State's Response and UPSC's Legal Challenge
Following the CAT's directive, the West Bengal government complied by submitting a list of eight IPS officers for consideration in the empanelment process. This list notably includes acting DGP Rajeev Kumar among the potential candidates for the permanent position.
However, sources indicate that UPSC approached the Delhi High Court shortly after receiving the state's list of recommended officers. The commission's legal challenge introduces new complications to what was already a time-sensitive selection process, potentially delaying the appointment beyond the January 31st deadline.
Broader Implications for Police Administration
The ongoing legal tussle highlights the complex interplay between state authorities and central institutions in high-level police appointments. With multiple senior officers retiring simultaneously and legal proceedings now extending the uncertainty, West Bengal faces potential administrative challenges in maintaining continuity of police leadership.
The Delhi High Court's decision on UPSC's challenge will determine whether the selection process must adhere to the CAT's original timeline or if extended deliberations will be permitted. This development comes at a critical juncture for West Bengal's law enforcement administration, with the state requiring stable leadership during a period of significant transition.
