Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has promoted senior IPS officer Alok Kumar (IPS: 1994: KN) as the Director-General of Police (DGP), and he has been posted to head the Department of Prisons and Correctional Services. The official order was issued on Wednesday, with the promotion effective retrospectively from September 12, 2025.
Road Safety Achievements Bring Recognition
Alok Kumar gained prominence for his exceptional efforts in reducing road accident fatalities on the Bengaluru-Mysuru highway. Appointed as Traffic and Road Safety Commissioner shortly after the highway opened in March 2023, Kumar tackled the alarming accident rate – 188 deaths reported that year – primarily caused by overspeeding and reckless driving.
Under his leadership, about 40 ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras were installed at 12 locations to detect and penalize speed violations. This initiative led to a reduction in accidental deaths on the highway to 92 in 2024, earning him widespread recognition for proactive policing.
Extensive Policing Experience
Throughout his career, Alok Kumar has held numerous key positions in the Karnataka Police, including –
- Bengaluru Police Commissioner
- Additional Commissioner
- Joint Commissioner
- Deputy Commissioner
He is credited with maintaining law and order and keeping criminal elements at bay in the city.
Transfer of Senior Officer B Dayananda
Alongside Mr Kumar’s promotion, B Dayananda (IPS: 1994: KN), who previously held the post of ADGP, Prisons and Correctional Services, has been transferred to Police Training, Bengaluru. The move comes as part of cadre restructuring, with both posts declared equivalent in status under IPS pay rules.
Alok Kumar: A Sports Enthusiast
Beyond policing, Kumar has a longstanding association with sports. He has actively participated in football, volleyball, badminton, basketball, hockey, cricket, and squash at competitive levels.
At the Karnataka State Police Sports Meet 2025, he recently won the Doubles Tennis title, highlighting his commitment to fitness and sportsmanship. He was felicitated by Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara for his outstanding performance.
Despite professional commitments, Kumar continues to maintain an active lifestyle through tennis, gym workouts, jogging, yoga, and swimming, reflecting his dedication to discipline and health.
Looking Ahead
As DGP of Prisons and Correctional Services, Kumar will oversee the administration of Karnataka’s correctional facilities, with responsibilities equivalent to the Director General of Police, Criminal Investigation Department (CID). His appointment is expected to bring a combination of operational excellence, safety-focused reforms, and disciplined leadership to the department.
