Is Sadanand Date the Right Choice as Maharashtra's DGP?
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Synopsis
Sadanand Date's appointment as Maharashtra's DGP marks a significant leadership shift in the state's police force. With a rich history in combating terrorism and a strong academic background, his two-year term begins amid local elections, raising questions about the impact of his leadership.
Key Takeaways
- Sadanand Date assumes the role of Director General of Police for Maharashtra.
- His term lasts for two years, irrespective of his retirement date.
- Date is known for his significant role during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
- He has extensive experience in anti-terrorism and law enforcement.
- Date holds a doctorate in Economic Offences.
Mumbai, January 3 (NationPress) Sadanand Date, an IPS officer from the 1990 batch, officially assumed the role of Director General of Police for Maharashtra on Saturday, succeeding Rashmi Shukla, whose tenure ended on January 3.
Date's appointment is set for a duration of two years, regardless of his retirement date, which will occur next December when he turns 60. The DGP office remarked on X that the Maharashtra Police Force is poised to become even more proficient under his guidance and expertise.
On December 31, the state government issued an order confirming Date's appointment; he previously held the position of Director General at the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Before this, Date was the head of the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) until March 2024, after which he transitioned to lead NIA in New Delhi.
Recently, he was repatriated back to Maharashtra upon the state government's request for him to take on the DGP role.
Date is celebrated as a key figure during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. On November 26, 2008, he was the Additional Commissioner of Police (Central Region) and played a pivotal role in apprehending Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists Ajmal Kasab and Abu Ismail on the rooftop of Cama Hospital. Despite sustaining injuries from grenade shrapnel, he continued to engage with the assailants.
His bravery earned him the President's Police Medal for Gallantry.
Date's extensive career includes serving in the Maharashtra ATS and as the inaugural Commissioner of Police for Mira-Bhayandar, Vasai-Virar. He has also held significant roles in Mumbai Police as Joint Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) and Crime, and worked with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
He holds a doctorate in Economic Offences from Pune University and steps into the DGP role amid local body elections.
Hailing from a modest background, Date delivered newspapers in his youth to support his family, and his mother worked as a domestic helper. He excelled academically, passing the UPSC exam to join the IPS, specializing in economic and organized crime.
Point of View
Sadanand Date's appointment as DGP is a significant development in Maharashtra's law enforcement landscape. His extensive experience and proven track record in critical situations like the 26/11 attacks highlight his capability to lead. As the state approaches local elections, Date's leadership could influence public trust in the police force.
NationPress
05/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Sadanand Date?
Sadanand Date is an IPS officer from the 1990 batch, recently appointed as the Director General of Police for Maharashtra.
What prior roles did Date hold before becoming DGP?
Before his current role, Date served as the Director General of the National Investigation Agency and led the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad.
What notable achievements does Date have?
Date is recognized for his actions during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, where he played a crucial role in apprehending terrorists despite being injured.
How long will Date serve as DGP?
Sadanand Date's appointment as DGP is for a period of two years, regardless of his retirement date.
What is Date's educational background?
He holds a doctorate in Economic Offences from Pune University and has specialized in economic and organized crime.
