Gandhinagar: Gujarat Director General of Police (DGP) Vikas Sahay, an IPS officer of the 1989 batch from the Gujarat cadre, is set to retire on his official retirement date of June 30. All eyes are now on the state government’s next move: whether to grant him a three-month extension or appoint a new DGP to lead the state police force.
Extension Under Consideration, But No Final Call Yet
According to sources within police and administrative circles, a three-month extension for Sahay is being seriously considered. However, with no official panel sent to the Union Public Appointments Committee (UPAC) so far, speculations remain rife that the current DGP may continue in office for a brief period post-retirement.
A decision is expected by Monday, June 30, as per existing orders related to Sahay’s retirement.
Who’s in the Race? GS Malik Emerges as Leading Contender
If the extension does not materialize, the strongest name being considered for the coveted post is Ahmedabad Police Commissioner Gyanender Singh Malik (IPS:1993:GJ). A seasoned officer with a history of key appointments, especially in the Border Security Force (BSF), Malik is widely respected in police circles.
His leadership in managing large-scale events in Ahmedabad, including the annual Rath Yatra, has received high praise, positioning him as a strong and capable administrator.
Other Senior Officers: Eligible, But Unlikely Choices
Despite several senior IPS officers being eligible, most are not expected to be appointed for various reasons:
- Dr. Shamsher Singh (IPS:1991:GJ): Currently on central deputation as ADG in BSF, making his appointment unlikely.
- Manoj Agrawal (IPS:1991:GJ): Presently serving as Director, Civil Defence & Commandant General, Home Guards, Agrawal is due to retire in September 2025, giving him only a short window if appointed DGP.
- Dr. K Lakshmi Narayan Rao (IPS:1992:GJ): Currently the DGP (Jails), his name is also in discussion, but not as strongly backed as Malik’s.
- Dr. Neerja Gotru (IPS:1993:GJ): Also among the contenders, though her name has not gained the same traction in internal discussions.
No Compulsion to Pick the Senior-Most Officer
Experts point out that seniority is not a binding criterion in appointing the DGP. The government is free to choose an officer based on merit, experience, and suitability, which works in Malik’s favor.
Additionally, regional origins may also factor into informal considerations. Among the contenders:
- Sahay hails from Bihar
- Shamsher Singh and GS Malik are from Haryana
- Manoj Agrawal is from Uttar Pradesh
- Dr. Gotru and KLN Rao are from Telangana
About the Incumbent: A Look Back at DGP Vikas Sahay’s Career
Vikas Sahay is a 1989-batch IPS officer who began his service with training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy, Hyderabad. Among his key career highlights:
- Participated in the UN Peacekeeping Mission in Bosnia-Herzegovina (1998–99)
- Served as SP in Anand and Ahmedabad Rural, and later as DCP and Additional CP in various Ahmedabad zones
Held positions such as IG Security, IG CID & Intelligence Bureau
Played a pivotal role in establishing the country’s first police university—Raksha Shakti University—in 2010. He served first as Dy. Director General, and later as Director General
- Currently serving as ADGP Training & DGP of Raksha Shakti University
- His contributions have been recognized through prestigious honors, including:
- President’s Police Medal for Meritorious Service
- President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service
What Next for Gujarat Police Leadership?
With June 30 around the corner, the Bhupendra Patel-led Gujarat government faces a crucial decision. The current DGP’s legacy is one of robust policing reforms and institution building. Whether he stays for a little longer or passes the baton to a new leader like GS Malik, Gujarat’s top police leadership is poised for a significant transition.
