Ranchi: In a significant development, the Central Government has once again directed the Jharkhand Government to remove Director General of Police (DGP) Anurag Gupta, (1989-batch Jharkhand cadre IPS officer), calling his continuation in office unconstitutional and in violation of Supreme Court directives. This is the third letter from the Centre on the issue.
Centre Cancels Anurag Gupta’s Service Extension
According to the latest communication, the Union Home Ministry has cancelled the extension of Anurag Gupta’s tenure, declaring that he officially retired on April 30. The letter states that continuing him in the role beyond his retirement date is a clear violation of constitutional norms and Supreme Court guidelines on police appointments.
Read Also: Centre-State Standoff: Jharkhand Defies MHA Order, Retains Anurag Gupta as DGP – What Lies Ahead?
State Government’s Justification Rejected
The Jharkhand government had earlier introduced new rules on January 8 for the appointment of the DGP. Under these rules, Anurag Gupta was appointed and given a two-year extension starting from February 2. However, the Centre has now rejected these arguments outright, terming the process and rule change inconsistent with constitutional procedures.
No Official Confirmation from State Authorities
Despite the seriousness of the Centre’s letter, no official confirmation has been made by the Jharkhand administration. When asked, Home Secretary Vandana Dadel declined to comment, stating, “I would not like to comment on this. You talk to the Chief Secretary.” Repeated calls to Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari went unanswered.
Meanwhile, sources indicate that day-long discussions took place on Tuesday in the offices of the Chief Secretary and Home Secretary regarding the contents of the letter.
Law and Order Review Meeting Postponed
Amid the administrative tension, a key review meeting on law and order scheduled for Tuesday was suddenly postponed. The meeting was supposed to address critical issues such as:
- Cyber crime
- Arms smuggling
- Infiltration
- Atrocities against women and Dalits
- Land disputes
- Mob lynching
- Communal tension
- Illegal mining
The meeting was to be held at 2 PM at Project Bhawan, with senior officials including DGP Anurag Gupta, Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari, and Home Secretary Vandana Dadel expected to attend. District-level officials including DCs and SPs were to join via video conferencing.
Political and Legal Fallout Likely
With mounting pressure from the Centre and the legal implications of disregarding Supreme Court rulings, the issue is expected to escalate politically and legally. If the state government refuses to comply, it could lead to a constitutional confrontation between the state and central authorities.
