SC seeks Amicus note on regular DGP appointment in Jharkhand
Pioneer News Service
Ranchi
The Supreme Court on Tuesday held an important hearing in the Prakash Singh vs Union of India case concerning the appointment of Directors General of Police (DGPs) in various states, with particular focus on the appointment of a regular DGP in Jharkhand.
A three-judge Bench headed by the Chief Justice of India directed that the complete paper book and relevant documents concerning the Jharkhand matter be provided to senior advocate and amicus curiae Raju Ramachandran. The court asked the amicus to examine the material and submit a detailed note to assist it in deciding the issue.
The hearing covered petitions concerning the appointment of DGPs in several states and alleged non-compliance with the guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court in its landmark 2006 Prakash Singh judgment.
When the issue of Jharkhand’s regular DGP appointment came up, the Bench directed that all relevant files and documents pertaining to the state be placed before the amicus for an independent assessment.
The court was also informed that states such as Karnataka and Gujarat had taken steps in compliance with the Supreme Court’s directions. Odisha and the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) have also filed their respective affidavits in the matter.
The Bench continued the existing interim orders and fixed September 2, 2026 as the next date of hearing.
In its judgment, the Supreme Court issued a series of directions aimed at insulating the police from undue political interference and ensuring greater accountability and stability in police administration.
Among other things, the court directed that a state DGP should be selected from a panel of three senior officers empanelled by the UPSC, rather than through the appointment of an acting or temporary DGP. The selected DGP should ordinarily have a minimum tenure of two years.
The appointment and continuation of DGPs in Jharkhand have previously been the subject of proceedings before the Supreme Court over questions surrounding the process and the use of interim arrangements.
With the Supreme Court now seeking an independent note from the amicus curiae, the September 2 hearing is expected to be significant for the future appointment of a regular DGP in Jharkhand.
