New Delhi, March 25 (NationPress) The Rajya Sabha commenced discussions on the Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026, which aims to solidify the role of Indian Police Service (IPS) officers in senior leadership positions within the nation's paramilitary forces.

This legislative proposal has faced significant backlash from opposition parties and retired CAPF officers, who argue that it contradicts a Supreme Court ruling from May 23, 2025. In that judgment, the court conferred Organised Group A Service status to CAPF officers and mandated the government to gradually limit IPS deputations up to the rank of Inspector General within a two-year timeframe.

The Bill seeks to unify the administration of the five central forces: Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), and Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

It stipulates that 50% of the positions at the rank of Inspector General, at least 67% of the positions for Additional Director General, and all roles for Special Director General and Director General within the CAPFs must be filled by IPS officers on deputation.

Previously, such appointments were managed through executive orders. The current legislation aims to formalize these guidelines into law.

The Bill was introduced in the Upper House by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai.

CPI(M) MP John Brittas vehemently opposed the Bill, asserting that it exceeds the legislative jurisdiction of the government acting under a standard legislative framework.

He remarked, "While Parliament possesses the authority, it cannot simply annul existing judicial orders without adequately addressing the legal framework underpinning them."

The Chair maintained that Parliament has the authority to enact the law; however, Brittas countered that it is impermissible for Parliament to bypass a judicial ruling based solely on declaration without properly engaging with its legal reasoning.

Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien and other opposition members echoed their dissent during the discussions.

Eight hours have been allocated for the introduction and debate of the Bill in the Upper House, as confirmed by a member of the opposition.

Retired CAPF officials have branded the Bill as unjust, claiming it contradicts the essence of the Supreme Court ruling that acknowledged the cadre strength and ambitions of the officers from these forces.

The government asserts that IPS leadership at senior levels is crucial for enhanced coordination between the Centre and states, particularly concerning internal security and law enforcement.

Anticipation mounts for continued discussions, likely featuring vigorous exchanges between the ruling party and opposition.

If enacted, the Bill could significantly alter the structure and command hierarchy of the Central Armed Police Forces, including the CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP, and SSB.