Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government on Friday promoted Additional Director General (SSF) Dhruv Kant Thakur (DK Thakur), a 1994-batch IPS officer, to the rank of Director General (DG) following the retirement of DG (Rules and Manuals) Abhay Prasad.
Promotion Order Issued After Governor’s Approval
According to an order issued by the Home Department on October 31, and signed by Secretary Atal Kumar Rai, the promotion will be effective from November 1, 2025, the date Thakur assumes charge. The order places him in the Pay Matrix Level 16 (₹2,05,400–₹2,24,400).
An order regarding his new posting will be issued separately, officials confirmed.
A Three-Decade Career Marked by Integrity and Discipline
Known for his integrity, discipline, and uncompromising policing style, DK Thakur has served in several key positions across Uttar Pradesh and at the national level. Over his distinguished career, he has been SP/SSP in 10 districts, SSP and DIG Lucknow, ADG ATS, ADG Dial-112, ADG Meerut Zone, and Lucknow Police Commissioner.
He also had a tenure with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and is a recipient of the Police Medal for Meritorious Service.
Track Record of Crime Control and Public Service
Thakur’s 20-month stint as Lucknow Police Commissioner was marked by effective crime control and humanitarian policing during the second wave of COVID-19, when his team extended crucial assistance to citizens.
Under his leadership, several high-profile cases were solved — including the murders of gangsters Ajit Singh (2021) and Virendra Thakur (2022).
His investigative acumen was also evident in solving the 2010–11 double murder of medical officers linked to the NRHM scam in Lucknow and the 2018 Bareilly lawyer murder case.
Administrative Achievements as Police Commissioner
During his tenure in Lucknow, six new police stations were established — PGI, Gautampalli, Jankipuram, Para, Vibhuti Khand, and Indiranagar — to strengthen policing infrastructure. The Anti-Human Trafficking Unit was also activated to function as a full-fledged police station.
Career Progression and Key Milestones
- Promoted to DIG in 2009
- Promoted to IG in 2013
- Promoted to ADG in 2019
- Promoted to DG in 2025
Thakur began his career as ASP Gorakhpur (1996) and went on to serve as SP/SSP in Gonda, Hardoi, Varanasi, Sultanpur, Baghpat, Chandauli, Kanpur Dehat, Ambedkar Nagar, Unnao, and Lucknow.
A Leader Known for Integrity and Public Connection
Born on January 1, 1970, in Madhepura district, Bihar, DK Thakur holds an MA in Culture and received education through the Gurukul system.
He is widely respected for his tough yet people-friendly approach, direct communication with the public, and firm stance on law and order.
During his service, he successfully led Assembly and Lok Sabha election operations and handled several sensitive law-and-order situations with precision.
An Officer Symbolizing the Ideal of Public-Centric Policing
Known for his fairness, efficiency, and dedication, DK Thakur has earned a reputation as an exemplary officer in the UP Police. His promotion to the rank of Director General marks yet another milestone in a career defined by professionalism and public trust.
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