Chandigarh: The Haryana government has sent a panel of five IPS officers’ names to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for the selection of the new Director General of Police (DGP). From this panel, UPSC will shortlist three names and send them back to the Haryana government, which will then appoint its preferred officer.
Shatrujeet Kapur, a 1990 batch IPS officer, whose name is on the panel, is unlikely to return to the DGP’s chair. Reports indicate that he may be assigned to the Energy Department, which is under Anil Vij, given his prior experience as Chairman-cum-Managing Director of the state power corporation.
Race for the Haryana DGP Post
Currently, three senior officers are frontrunners:
- Alok Mittal (1993 batch): Has served in key positions both at the state and national levels, including SP CBI Economic Offences Wing, Cyber Crime Cell, and Inspector General of the National Investigation Agency (NIA). He also managed districts like Panipat, Faridabad, Gurgaon, and Rohtak.
- Ajay Singhal (1992 batch): Former Police Commissioner of Ambala-Panchkula Police Commissionerate and current Vigilance Chief. Close to the Haryana government and RSS.
- AS Chawla (1993 batch): Currently Director of Haryana Police Academy, Madhuban. Known for his honest image and strong policing knowledge.
The real contest is reportedly between Mittal and Singhal, with one of them expected to be appointed as the next DGP.
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Why Shatrujeet Kapur Is Lagging Behind
Controversy:
Kapur is a prime accused in the suicide case of the late IPS officer Y. Pooran Kumar, leading to objections when his name appeared on the UPSC panel. Activists and committee members have warned the government of potential backlash if Kapur is appointed as DGP.
Less Active on the Ground:
During his tenure, Kapur was reportedly less active on the ground compared to OP Singh, who currently holds additional charge of DGP and has received praise for district visits and major operations.
Potential Role in Energy Department
The Haryana government is reportedly preparing to adjust Kapur in the Energy Department, potentially as Additional Chief Secretary (ACS). Kapur has previously served in the department as Chairman and Principal Secretary and is credited with work on electricity theft and line loss reduction. He is expected to serve in the Energy Department for the remainder of his tenure, with retirement scheduled in October 2026.
Timeline for DGP Appointment
- OP Singh, currently holding additional charge, retires on 31 December 2025.
- UPSC is expected to shortlist three names by 25 December 2025.
Haryana government will then appoint the new DGP from the shortlisted officers.
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