Srinagar/New Delhi: In mid-October, Srinagar witnessed an incident that appeared ordinary at first glance—Jaish-e-Mohammed posters threatening attacks on security forces popped up in Nowgam. These posters, once a common sight until 2019, had become rare. But for Dr G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy, the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar, nothing about this could be ignored.
A 2014-batch IPS officer with a reputation for tactical precision, Dr Chakravarthy immediately sensed the potential gravity behind these innocuous posters. Having led the J&K Police component in Operation Mahadev, which neutralized the three Pahalgam attackers, he was no stranger to terror modules. Driven by his curiosity and operational instincts, he ordered a detailed investigation. CCTV footage soon pointed to three overground workers with prior stone-pelting histories. Their interrogation unraveled a network that connected Jammu & Kashmir, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, eventually leading to the arrests of several Kashmiri doctors and others involved in a sophisticated Jaish-e-Mohammed terror module.
This operation, which uncovered over 2,900 kg of explosives, bomb-making material, and AK-series rifles, not only showcased the precision of modern policing but also highlighted the leadership and strategic acumen of Dr Chakravarthy.
Early Life and Education: Medicine Meets Service
Born in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy grew up in a family steeped in public service. His father, Dr G.V. Rama Gopal Rao, was a retired RMO at the Government General Hospital, while his mother, P.C. Rangamma, retired as an officer in the Health Department.
Sundeep’s early schooling at Montessori Public School, A-Camp, Kurnool, laid the foundation for a disciplined and curious mind. He pursued medicine at Kurnool Medical College, graduating as a doctor in 2010. For a brief period (2010–2011), he served as a medical doctor, practicing at his alma mater, before answering a different call of duty—joining the Indian Police Service in 2014.
Even in his early years, Sundeep displayed a unique blend of analytical thinking, physical fitness, and leadership. In 2017, he received the Best Athlete award at the 92 FC Sports Meet organized by Dr MCR HRD Institute, and was also awarded a gold medal at the same event, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in both mind and body.
Climbing the Ranks: Key Postings in Jammu & Kashmir
Dr Chakravarthy’s career in Jammu & Kashmir has been marked by a series of strategically important and high-risk postings, giving him deep exposure to counter-terror operations, community policing, and police administration. His service record includes:
- SDPO Uri and Sopore – handling frontline policing in sensitive areas
- SP Operations Baramulla – coordinating anti-terror operations in a volatile district
- SP South Srinagar, SP Handwara, SSP Kupwara, SSP Kulgam, SSP Anantnag – leading districts with complex security challenges
- AIG CIV Police Headquarters – overseeing internal police matters, discipline, and vigilance
SSP Srinagar (from April 21, 2025) – succeeding Imtiyaz Hussain Mir and taking on one of the most critical postings in the valley
His tenure across these postings has been distinguished by both operational successes and people-centric initiatives. In Anantnag, Kupwara, and Kulgam, his leadership led to the neutralization of terror threats and the dismantling of terror modules while simultaneously fostering community engagement programs to build trust between civilians and law enforcement.
The Operations Specialist: Anti-Terror Leadership
Dr Chakravarthy is widely known within his unit as the “Operations Specialist.” His approach combines meticulous planning with swift, decisive action. The Nowgam posters investigation serves as a prime example:
He personally prioritized tracking the origins of seemingly minor threats.
Interrogations of initial suspects led to Maulvi Irfan Ahmad, whose questioning over two to three weeks exposed a multi-state Jaish-e-Mohammed terror network.
Under his supervision, police recovered 2,921 kg of explosives, bomb-making material, and two AK-series rifles, while arresting doctors posing as civilians in Faridabad and uncovering ties to Pakistan-based terrorist operatives.
His work demonstrates a blend of tactical brilliance, patience, and human insight—qualities that have earned him respect both within the force and among local communities.
Awards, Recognition, and Achievements
Dr G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy’s bravery and dedication have been recognized multiple times:
- Six-time President’s Police Medal for Gallantry (PMG) – for courage in anti-terror operations
- Four-time Jammu & Kashmir Police Medal for Gallantry
- Indian Army Chief’s Commendation Disc
These awards highlight not only his personal courage but also his role in shaping modern policing strategies in one of India’s most challenging regions.
Personal Life and Interests
Despite his demanding career, Dr Chakravarthy maintains a rich personal life:
- He enjoys travelling to distant places and dancing in his free time, balancing high-intensity work with personal passions.
- His early medical training and athletic achievements underscore a lifelong commitment to discipline, resilience, and excellence.
Back to the Operation: Leadership in Action
The Jaish-e-Mohammed terror bust in Srinagar, Faridabad, and Uttar Pradesh is a testament to Dr Chakravarthy’s operational leadership:
- Arrests included Kashmiri doctors Muzammil Ganaie, Adeel Ahmad Rather, Dr Shaheen Sayeed, along with other operatives coordinating logistics and recruitment.
- Explosives and weapons were recovered from multiple locations, including Faridabad houses storing 2,563 kg and 358 kg of explosive material.
- Interrogations revealed links to Pakistan-based operatives and pan-India terror groups, indicating a meticulously planned conspiracy.
Dr Chakravarthy’s insistence on following every clue, from posters to digital evidence, exemplifies a policing philosophy that combines vigilance, intelligence, and rapid action.
Vision for Policing: Community, Trust, and Safety
Since taking charge as SSP Srinagar, Dr Chakravarthy has emphasized:
- Community policing and public trust – strengthening citizen-police relations
- Transparency and responsiveness – ensuring accountability within the force
- Law and order with humanity – balancing firmness with fairness
He has articulated a clear message to his officers: “Ensuring the safety and security of the people of Srinagar will remain our top priority. At the same time, we will focus on transparency, responsiveness, and welfare within the force.”
Conclusion: A Career of Courage and Commitment
Dr G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy’s journey from a medical doctor in Kurnool to the SSP Srinagar and a six-time PMG awardee reflects a rare combination of intelligence, bravery, and humanity. The Nowgam terror module investigation underscores how his leadership can transform small clues into major operational victories, safeguarding thousands of lives.
In a challenging and complex region like Jammu & Kashmir, his story is not just about policing—it’s about dedication, courage, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
