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Politics
Centre challenges Jharkhand DGP appointment as illegal before Supreme Court
✍️ Hindustan Times
🗓 08 Oct 2026, 11:33 AM
👁 34
The Union government has filed an appeal in the Supreme Court contesting the legality of the recent appointment of the Director General of Police in Jharkhand.
The Union government approached the Supreme Court on Tuesday, asserting that the recent appointment of the Director General of Police (DGP) in Jharkhand violates established legal norms. The central appeal seeks a judicial review of the state government's decision, claiming procedural irregularities in the selection process.
According to the filing, the appointment was made without adhering to the guidelines prescribed under the All India Services (Conduct) Rules and the relevant provisions of the Police Act. The Centre argues that the state government overstepped its authority, thereby rendering the appointment illegal.
The Supreme Court has listed the matter for hearing, and both the central and state authorities are expected to present their arguments in the coming weeks. The outcome could have significant implications for the balance of power between the Union and state governments in police appointments.
Legal experts note that while states traditionally enjoy autonomy in police matters, any deviation from statutory procedures can invite judicial scrutiny. The case underscores the ongoing tension between federal and state jurisdictions in India’s administrative framework.
The DGP position, a key law‑enforcement role in Jharkhand, remains vacant pending the court's decision, affecting the state's policing hierarchy and operational continuity.
According to the filing, the appointment was made without adhering to the guidelines prescribed under the All India Services (Conduct) Rules and the relevant provisions of the Police Act. The Centre argues that the state government overstepped its authority, thereby rendering the appointment illegal.
The Supreme Court has listed the matter for hearing, and both the central and state authorities are expected to present their arguments in the coming weeks. The outcome could have significant implications for the balance of power between the Union and state governments in police appointments.
Legal experts note that while states traditionally enjoy autonomy in police matters, any deviation from statutory procedures can invite judicial scrutiny. The case underscores the ongoing tension between federal and state jurisdictions in India’s administrative framework.
The DGP position, a key law‑enforcement role in Jharkhand, remains vacant pending the court's decision, affecting the state's policing hierarchy and operational continuity.