What Led to Jharkhand's Top Cop Anurag Gupta Resigning?
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Synopsis
In a significant turn of events, Jharkhand's DGP Anurag Gupta steps down amid tensions between the Centre and the state government. His resignation, submitted at Chief Minister Hemant Soren's residence, marks the end of a controversial tenure that sparked intense political discussions.
Key Takeaways
- Anurag Gupta's resignation indicates political tensions in Jharkhand.
- High-level discussions are underway to identify his successor.
- The appointment process for the DGP remains contentious.
- Gupta's tenure was marked by significant legal and administrative challenges.
- Political dynamics will influence future appointments in law enforcement.
Ranchi, Nov 5 (NationPress) Jharkhand's Director General of Police (DGP) Anurag Gupta, whose appointment ignited a conflict between the Centre and the state administration, has officially submitted his resignation, as confirmed by senior government sources on Wednesday.
As per the sources, Gupta delivered his resignation at Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s residence late Tuesday night.
Although the state government has yet to make an official declaration, reports indicate that his resignation was acknowledged on Wednesday, with directions for him to remain in office until a successor is designated.
This sudden turn of events has spurred high-level discussions within the state government regarding Gupta’s successor. Senior IPS officers Prashant Singh and M.S. Bhatia are reportedly among the leading candidates for the position, according to official sources.
Gupta, a 1990-batch IPS officer, was promoted to Director General in 2022 and subsequently served as DG of Training. On July 26, 2024, he was appointed as Acting DGP by the Jharkhand government.
However, just prior to the Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India removed him from his position. The Hemant Soren government reinstated him as Acting DGP on November 28, 2024, immediately following the conclusion of the electoral process.
His appointment became the focal point of a prolonged standoff involving the state government, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), and the Union Home Ministry.
According to the new state regulations in Jharkhand regarding DGP appointments, Gupta was named as the regular DGP for a fixed two-year term starting February 2 this year, extending to February 2027—well past his anticipated retirement date of April 30, 2025, when he will reach the age of 60.
The Union Home Ministry opposed this extension, demanding that the state adhere to the Supreme Court-mandated selection process via the UPSC.
The Centre issued two letters to the state government, requesting Gupta’s dismissal, but the state defended its position by citing its newly established regulations.
The UPSC also declined to approve his appointment as regular DGP, further complicating the situation.
Previously, Gupta has held significant roles, including DGP of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and the CID.
In September, the state government stripped him of his ACB responsibilities, fueling speculation about his impending departure.
Point of View
It's essential to highlight that the resignation of Anurag Gupta underscores the ongoing challenges faced in maintaining stability within law enforcement amid political pressures. The intersection of state and central governance continues to shape the narrative of police administration in Jharkhand, and it is vital for citizens to remain informed of these developments for a more accountable system.
NationPress
01/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Anurag Gupta resign?
Anurag Gupta resigned amid ongoing conflicts between the Centre and the Jharkhand state government regarding his position.
Who is likely to replace Anurag Gupta?
Senior IPS officers Prashant Singh and M.S. Bhatia are among the frontrunners for the DGP position.
What was the controversy surrounding Gupta's appointment?
His appointment sparked a standoff involving the Union Home Ministry, the UPSC, and the Jharkhand government regarding the DGP selection process.
