📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Pinakpani
National
Supreme Court asks states to disclose laws breaching DGP appointment guidelines
✍️ Hindustan Times
🗓 04 Nov 2026, 01:16 PM
👁 14
The Supreme Court has directed all state governments to submit details of any statutes that conflict with the established rules for selecting a Director General of Police.
The apex court issued a notice seeking information from state governments regarding statutes that may be at odds with the Supreme Court‑mandated framework for appointing the Director General of Police (DGP). The move follows earlier judgments that set out transparent criteria for the selection of the senior‑most police officer in each state.
The Court asked each state to furnish copies of relevant legislation, amendments or notifications that could affect the eligibility, seniority or appointment process of the DGP, and to explain how they align with the national guidelines. The deadline for submission was not disclosed in the brief report.
Legal experts say the order aims to ensure uniformity across states and prevent political interference in police leadership. The Supreme Court has previously intervened in similar matters to uphold merit‑based appointments and maintain the independence of the police force.
The states are expected to respond through their legal counsel, and the Court may schedule a hearing to examine the submissions. The outcome could lead to further directives to harmonise state laws with the central framework.
The Court asked each state to furnish copies of relevant legislation, amendments or notifications that could affect the eligibility, seniority or appointment process of the DGP, and to explain how they align with the national guidelines. The deadline for submission was not disclosed in the brief report.
Legal experts say the order aims to ensure uniformity across states and prevent political interference in police leadership. The Supreme Court has previously intervened in similar matters to uphold merit‑based appointments and maintain the independence of the police force.
The states are expected to respond through their legal counsel, and the Court may schedule a hearing to examine the submissions. The outcome could lead to further directives to harmonise state laws with the central framework.