Uttar Pradesh is moving closer to appointing a full-time Director General of Police (DGP), with a high-level government meeting scheduled for May 26 to finalise the selection panel. The development comes as the state continues under an officiating DGP arrangement.
Officials indicate that the decision process is now in its advanced stage, and a permanent appointment is expected soon.
Rajiv Krishna Emerges as Front-Runner for Top Police Post
Among the leading contenders, Rajiv Krishna is reportedly the strongest candidate for the post of full-time DGP.
He is currently serving as officiating DGP and has been closely associated with the state leadership. According to administrative sources, his proximity to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and his tenure in key policing roles have placed him ahead in the selection race.
Krishna was earlier appointed as officiating DGP on 31 May 2026, and has since continued in charge of the state police force.
Chhattisgarh Precedent: Pattern of Confirming Officiating Chiefs
The potential elevation of a full-time DGP in Uttar Pradesh is being compared to the recent development in Chhattisgarh, where Arun Dev Gautam was confirmed as full-time DGP after serving as officiating chief for around 17 months.
This pattern suggests that states may be increasingly preferring continuity by regularising officers already holding the top post in an acting capacity.
Political Context Ahead of 2027 Uttar Pradesh Elections
The timing of the appointment is considered politically significant, as Uttar Pradesh is heading towards the 2027 Assembly elections. A permanent police chief is expected to play a crucial role in law-and-order management during the pre-election period.
Observers believe that administrative stability in the police leadership is often prioritised ahead of major electoral cycles, particularly in a politically sensitive state like Uttar Pradesh.
What Happens Next
The final decision will depend on the recommendations of the selection panel that is expected to be discussed in the May 26 meeting. Once the panel finalises its list, the state government is likely to issue an official notification appointing the next full-time DGP.
Until then, speculation continues, with Rajiv Krishna remaining the leading name in circulation for the top policing role in the state.
