New Delhi: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved key senior postings in the Indian Police Service, marking significant leadership changes in the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
Anand Swaroop Takes Charge as Special Secretary (Internal Security)
The ACC has appointed Anand Swaroop (IPS: 1992, UP cadre), previously serving as Director General (Investigation) at the NHRC, as the new Special Secretary (Internal Security) in the Ministry of Home Affairs. He replaces Praveen Vashista (IPS: 1991, BH cadre).
Swaroop’s tenure will extend until his superannuation on 31 August 2029, commencing from the date he assumes charge. According to the official order, his appointment will continue either until his retirement or until further instructions from the government.
This move forms part of broader administrative adjustments aimed at streamlining federal oversight and strengthening internal security functions.
Profile: Anand Swaroop
Anand Swaroop, a 1992-batch IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, brings over three decades of policing experience, including field and central deputation roles.
Known for his disciplined and impartial administrative style, Swaroop has held several prominent positions –
- Director General (UP Police): Promoted in May 2025.
- DG (Investigation), NHRC: Held this post from August 2025 until his MHA appointment in January 2026.
- Central Deputations: Served in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, and the National Security Advisor’s Secretariat.
Swaroop has extensive field experience as SSP and DIG in sensitive districts of Uttar Pradesh and is widely respected for his transparent and strict operational approach.
Academic Credentials: Born in Patna, Bihar, Swaroop holds an M.A. in Economics, an MBA in Finance, LL.B, and an M.Phil.
Anupama Nilekar Chandra Appointed DG (Investigation), NHRC
In a reciprocal move, the ACC has appointed Anupama Nilekar Chandra (IPS: 1994, BH cadre), currently serving as Special Director General of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), as Director General (Investigation) at the NHRC. Her tenure will last until 31 March 2031, coinciding with her superannuation.
Chandra will take over from Anand Swaroop, continuing the NHRC’s mission to strengthen investigative capabilities.
Profile: Anupama Nilekar Chandra
Dr. Anupama Nilekar Chandra has a distinguished career in policing and central paramilitary leadership. Highlights include –
- Special Director General, SSB: Conducted operational reviews along sensitive borders including Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders.
- Additional Director General, SSB: Oversaw critical phases of border security in late 2024–2025.
- Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D): Served as Additional Director General and earlier as IG/Director (Training), contributing to police research and training.
- Education & Training: Holds a medical degree and completed the prestigious 64th National Defence College (NDC) Course in 2024 for senior military and civil service officers.
Chandra is recognized for her operational expertise, particularly in border management and security preparedness.
Administrative Context
These appointments reflect a strategic approach by the government to enhance efficiency in internal security administration and human rights investigations. The leadership shuffle ensures continuity in both the Ministry of Home Affairs and the NHRC, while leveraging the extensive experience of senior IPS officers in sensitive governance and security roles.
Career Timeline Summary
Anand Swaroop
- 1992: Joined IPS, UP cadre
- May 2025: DG, UP Police
- Aug 2025 – Jan 2026: DG (Investigation), NHRC
- Jan 2026 – Aug 2029: Special Secretary (Internal Security), MHA
Anupama Nilekar Chandra
- 1994: Joined IPS, Bihar cadre
- 2024–2025: ADG, SSB; SDG, SSB
- Jan 2026 – Mar 2031: DG (Investigation), NHRC
