Syllabus: Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability
Who is the DGP?
- Highest-ranking police officer in a State/UT, also called State Police Chief.
SC’s Prakash Singh Judgment (2006) – Old Rules
- DGP must be selected from three senior-most officers empanelled by the UPSC.
- Promotion based on length of service, good record, and experience.
- Selected officer must have two-year minimum tenure, regardless of superannuation.
2018 Supreme Court Directives – Selection of DGP
- States must send proposals to UPSC three months before incumbent’s retirement.
- UPSC prepares a panel of eligible officers with minimum two years of service left.
- States must appoint only from the UPSC panel.
- No “acting DGP” appointments permitted.
- Officer may continue beyond superannuation, but extension must be reasonable.
- Appointing DGP on the day of retirement violates SC directives.
- Any conflicting State/Centre rules will remain in abeyance.
Contention by States
- States argue the process violates federal principles since police and public order are State subjects.
- Claim UPSC lacks authority unless Parliament passes new legislation.
- Seek modification of 2018 judgment to retain State legislative autonomy.
Prakash Singh Police Reforms (7 Directives)
- Fixed tenure for DGP and key officers to curb political interference.
- No mid-term transfers without justification.
- Police Establishment Board for postings and transfers.
- State Police Complaints Authority for grievances.
- Separation of investigation and law and order.
- State Security Commission for policy guidance.
- National Security Commission for senior appointments.