Is Abhay Kumar Singh the New Interim TN DGP After Venkataraman's Hospitalization?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Abhay Kumar Singh appointed as interim DGP.
- Current DGP G. Venkataraman hospitalized.
- Policing operations will continue without disruption.
- Leadership change comes before the 2026 Assembly elections.
- Singh to manage dual responsibilities during this period.
Chennai, Dec 11 (IANS) In a pivotal shift within the leadership of the Tamil Nadu Police, the state government has appointed Abhay Kumar Singh, the Director of the Directorate of Vigilance and Anti-Corruption (DVAC), as the interim Director General of Police and Head of the Police Force (HoPF). This change comes in light of the unexpected hospitalization of the current DGP, G. Venkataraman.
Venkataraman was admitted to the hospital on Wednesday after suffering from acute chest pain, necessitating immediate medical intervention.
Medical professionals have recommended a minimum of 15 days of rest and treatment, prompting the state to officially place him on earned medical leave from December 9 to 23.
While the specifics of his health condition remain undisclosed, it has been described as requiring careful monitoring.
Having assumed the role of in-charge DGP on August 31 following the retirement of former police chief Shankar Jiwal, Venkataraman has been managing the state police during a critical period. His unexpected health issue necessitated prompt administrative action to maintain leadership continuity.
A government order issued on December 10 stated: “Abhay Kumar Singh, IPS, DGP/Director, Vigilance & Anti-Corruption, Chennai, is directed to act as Director General of Police/Head of Police Force, Tamil Nadu (in-charge) during the aforementioned leave period.”
Singh, a 1993-batch IPS officer of DGP rank, has been at the helm of the DVAC and will now take on dual responsibilities.
Senior officials have assured that police operations throughout Tamil Nadu will proceed without interruption. All senior officers and district units have been instructed to collaborate closely with Singh to uphold administrative and operational stability.
Singh is anticipated to oversee both routine policing and DVAC responsibilities simultaneously until Venkataraman returns.
Political analysts observe that leadership transitions, even temporary, generate significant interest as Tamil Nadu approaches a politically sensitive phase ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. Ensuring law-and-order stability, optimizing intelligence operations, and preparing for enforcement are expected to be of utmost priority during this interim period.