Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has appointed M.A. Saleem, a senior IPS officer of the 1993 batch, as the new Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG-IGP). Saleem took charge on Wednesday, succeeding Dr. Alok Mohan, who retired from service on the same day. Saleem’s appointment has been widely anticipated, and his extensive career and experience in various key roles make him a well-suited candidate to lead the state’s police force.
A 32-Year Career with Vast Experience in Key Roles
Saleem, who hails from Chikkabanavara, a growing suburb in Bengaluru, has served in 26 different roles over his 32-year career, spanning multiple regions and departments within the state. Before his appointment as DG-IGP, he served as the Director General of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), where he gained recognition for his efforts in handling high-profile cases.
Saleem’s leadership has been particularly notable in Bengaluru, where he served as the Special Commissioner of Police (Traffic). He is widely acknowledged for his innovative solutions to the city’s chronic traffic problems. His initiatives include the introduction of one-way systems on 122 roads, the Safe Routes to School project, the Automated Traffic Challan System, and the Local Area Traffic Management Plans, which have played a significant role in streamlining traffic flow and improving road safety.
Saleem’s Background: A Commitment to Service
Born on June 25, 1966, M.A. Saleem holds postgraduate degrees in commerce and police management, and has a PhD in traffic management from Bangalore University. He is also an author of a book on traffic management in metropolitan cities, and a regular columnist for various newspapers.
His contributions to public service have shaped his reputation as an officer with integrity, innovative thinking, and strong administrative skills.
Focus on Crime and Investigation
During his tenure as the CID Chief, Saleem oversaw numerous high-stakes investigations, including the IMA scam, which defrauded over 74,000 people. He also handled sensitive cases such as the Hassan sexual harassment case, misappropriation of Rs 94 crore at the Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation, and the police sub-inspector recruitment scam.
Recognized for Excellence and Leadership
Saleem has been honored with numerous accolades for his contributions to law enforcement and public safety. Among his recognitions are the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Services (2017), the President’s Police Medal for Meritorious Service (2009), and the National Award for e-Governance for his exceptional use of information and communication technology (ICT) in policing.
He also received the IRTE Prince Michael International Road Safety Award for his work on road safety initiatives in Bengaluru. Saleem was also a part of the Anti-Terrorism Assistance Programme, where he led the Indian delegation for training at the Louisiana State Police Academy in the USA.
Challenges Ahead: Leadership During Transition
As Saleem assumes office as the new DG-IGP, he will inherit a police force that faces several challenges, including rising urban crime rates and increasing traffic congestion in Bengaluru, one of India’s fastest-growing cities. However, his experience in addressing such issues, particularly in traffic management, is expected to serve him well in tackling these concerns.
Additionally, Saleem’s appointment comes at a time when Karnataka has been focusing on strengthening its police administration and enhancing public safety systems across the state. His track record suggests a strong inclination towards community engagement, and technology-driven solutions in policing.
A Tenure Until June 2026
Saleem will serve as DG-IGP for a term of one year, retiring in June 2026. His leadership is expected to further bolster the Karnataka police’s focus on enhancing law enforcement while improving the overall quality of policing in the state.
