The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved the appointment of IPS officer Rakesh Balwal as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on deputation.
According to an official order issued on May 25, 2026, Balwal, a 2012-batch IPS officer of the Manipur cadre, will serve under the standard terms and conditions governing central deputation.
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Manipur Government Asked to Relieve Officer Immediately
The MHA has directed the Government of Manipur to relieve the officer without delay so he can assume his new assignment at the Centre.
Balwal has earlier served in several key security and policing positions in Jammu and Kashmir.
Officer Played Key Role in 2019 Pulwama Terror Attack Investigation
A native of Udhampur district in Jammu and Kashmir, Rakesh Balwal is widely known for his role in investigating the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel.
He also served as Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) in Srinagar during crucial security phases in the region.
Decorated IPS Officer with Multiple Honours
During his career, Balwal has received several prestigious honours, including:
- Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in Investigation
- Chief of Army Staff Commendation
- Director General CRPF Commendation
Earlier Served with NIA on Deputation
Before this appointment, Balwal served on deputation with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for over three-and-a-half years as Superintendent of Police.
He was part of the NIA team that investigated the Pulwama terror attack case.
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