UPSC to shortlist next Bengal DGP as state submits 8 IPS names

The process to appoint the next Director General of Police in West Bengal has gathered momentum, with the state government forwarding a list of eight senior IPS officers to the Union Public Service Commission for scrutiny. The move follows central government directives as the tenure of the incumbent DGP nears its end.

According to reports, the list sent to the UPSC includes the name of current DGP Rajeev Kumar along with Ranbir Kumar, Rajesh Kumar, Devashish Ray, Anuj Sharma, Jag Mohan, N. Ramesh Babu, and Siddhinath Gupta. The names were forwarded on Saturday after the state completed its internal assessment.

Officials said the shortlisted officers were selected based on seniority, service record, and professional experience, in line with the prescribed procedure for appointing a state police chief. The submission marks a key step in the formal selection process.

The UPSC will now examine the credentials of the proposed officers and prepare a panel of three names. This panel will be sent back to the state government, which will make the final appointment from among the shortlisted candidates.

The appointment is being closely watched within administrative and police circles, given the importance of the DGP’s role in maintaining law and order, overseeing security, and ensuring coordination across departments. A final decision is expected in the coming days.