The Uttar Pradesh government has introduced new guidelines for appointing the state’s Director General of Police (DGP), aiming to create a more independent and transparent selection process. Approved by the state cabinet on Monday, the Appointment Rules, 2024 lay out specific procedures for choosing the DGP, including a two-year minimum tenure and the establishment of an independent Nominating Committee.
Key Changes in the DGP Appointment Process
Under the new rules, the Uttar Pradesh government will no longer need to send DGP candidates’ names to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for approval. Instead, a state-level Nominating Committee, headed by a retired High Court judge, will oversee the process. This committee will include key officials like the chief secretary, a UPSC representative, the chairman of the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (or nominee), the additional chief secretary of the Home Department, and a former state DGP.
Objectives of the New Rules
The guidelines emphasize the importance of appointing a police chief without political or executive influence. “The Appointment Rules, 2024 aim to establish an independent and transparent process to ensure that the selection is based solely on Uttar Pradesh’s specific policing needs,” the state government stated.
Eligibility Criteria and Tenure
To qualify for the DGP role, candidates must have at least six months of service remaining at the time of appointment and must currently hold a Level 16 position within the DG rank. Once appointed, the DGP will serve for a minimum of two years.
Alignment with Supreme Court Directives
The new guidelines follow Supreme Court directives set out in the landmark Prakash Singh vs. Union of India case, where the court called on states to implement measures ensuring police independence and accountability. The rules allow for the removal of the DGP only under specific conditions, such as criminal charges, corruption, or failure to perform duties.
Political Reactions
Reacting to the development, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav expressed concerns, suggesting that the new rules could potentially open the door to more central influence over state police matters.
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