The Supreme Court has asked Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan to explain how the government is implementing its May 2025 order on the appointment of Indian Police Service (IPS) officers to senior positions in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).
The court was hearing a contempt petition filed by retired CAPF personnel. The petition raised concerns over whether the government was properly following the Supreme Court’s earlier directions to reduce the number of IPS officers posted to senior positions in the CAPFs.
During the hearing, Justice Ujjal Bhuyan expressed concern about the situation. He referred to what he described as a “strong lobby” that had affected the career opportunities of CAPF officers. The judge questioned why IPS officers were needed for many senior positions when CAPF officers themselves have long experience in the forces.
Justice Bhuyan also highlighted the dedication and bravery of CAPF personnel. He indicated that officers who have spent years serving in the CAPFs should have better opportunities to rise to senior positions within their own organisations.
On May 23, 2025, the Supreme Court had directed the government to reduce IPS deputations to senior positions in the CAPFs within two years. The court also recognized Group A CAPF officers as part of “Organised Services.” It directed the government to review the cadre rules of the CAPFs within six months.
The Union Home Ministry later submitted an affidavit to the court explaining the steps taken to follow the order. According to the affidavit, 46 IPS officers had been appointed on deputation to CAPFs since the Supreme Court issued its May 2025 directions.
The ministry said it had started the process of reviewing CAPF cadres and taking other steps to comply with the court’s instructions. However, questions have now been raised over whether the government’s later actions are consistent with the Supreme Court’s earlier ruling.
In April 2026, the government introduced the CAPFs (General Administration) Act. The new law increased the number of senior positions in the CAPFs that can be occupied by IPS officers on deputation.
Under the new law, at least 50% of Inspector General positions and 67% of Additional Director General positions in the CAPFs must be filled by IPS officers on deputation. Earlier, such appointments were mainly made through executive orders.
The new legislation has become a major point of dispute because it appears to change the rules regarding senior-level appointments in the CAPFs. Critics argue that the law could reduce promotion opportunities for experienced CAPF officers and increase the presence of IPS officers in senior positions.
The issue has now reached the Supreme Court again. Five writ petitions challenging the new law are currently pending before the court.
The petitions are scheduled to be heard on November 18. The upcoming hearing could provide further clarity on whether the new law is consistent with the Supreme Court’s May 2025 directions and what role IPS officers should have in senior CAPF positions.
The case is being closely watched by CAPF personnel and retired officers because the final decision could affect the promotion structure, career opportunities and leadership system within the country’s Central Armed Police Forces.