Who Will Be the Next Kerala Police Chief? UPSC Narrows Down Candidates
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Synopsis
The race for the next Kerala police chief is heating up as the UPSC narrows the list to three candidates. Will Chief Minister Vijayan make the bold choice? Stay tuned as political dynamics unfold in this crucial selection.
Key Takeaways
- UPSC has shortlisted three candidates for Kerala police chief.
- Decision rests with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
- Yogesh Gupta's standing with Vijayan has diminished.
- Manoj Abraham was excluded from the final list.
- Appointment must occur before the current DGP's retirement.
New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, June 26 (NationPress) The UPSC panel convened in New Delhi on Thursday to evaluate the list of leading IPS officials for the position of Kerala state police chief. They have shortlisted three candidates from the roster provided by the Pinarayi Vijayan administration.
Joining the selection committee were Central government officials, Kerala Chief Secretary A. Jayatilak, and the outgoing DGP Sheikh Darvesh Saheb.
The original list from Kerala featured Nithin Agarwal, Ravadha Chandrasekhar, Yogesh Gupta, and Manoj Abraham, all of whom hold the rank of Director General of Police. Notably, the Vijayan government attempted to include two Additional Directors General of Police—Suresh Raj Purohit and M.R. Ajith Kumar, a favored candidate of Vijayan—but was unsuccessful.
During the meeting, Abraham’s name was excluded as the other three officers possessed a spotless record and were senior to him.
Thus, the top three candidates based on seniority have been approved, leaving the decision to Vijayan to choose one from Agarwal, Chandrasekhar, and Gupta for the next state police chief.
Interestingly, Gupta, who was once in favor with Vijayan, is now said to be persona non grata, leading to speculation that either Agarwal or Chandrasekhar might be preferred. Most likely, the prestigious position will be awarded to Chandrasekhar.
Agarwal recently returned to Kerala after an extensive period on central deputation, while Chandrasekhar, currently with the Intelligence Bureau, was in the state capital and reportedly expressed his desire to return to Kerala during a meeting with Vijayan last week.
With the shortlist finalized, Vijayan must convene a special cabinet meeting to appoint the next SPC, as Saheb is set to retire following his two-year extension on June 30.
Point of View
The selection of the next Kerala police chief is not merely about filling a vacancy; it reflects broader governance challenges. With local politics playing a significant role, the decision will undoubtedly influence law enforcement’s direction and efficacy in the state.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the UPSC's selection?
The UPSC's selection is crucial as it determines the leadership of Kerala's police force, impacting law enforcement and public safety.
Who are the shortlisted candidates?
The shortlisted candidates are Nithin Agarwal, Ravadha Chandrasekhar, and Yogesh Gupta.
What role does Chief Minister Vijayan play in this decision?
Chief Minister Vijayan will make the final decision on who will become the next state police chief from the shortlisted candidates.
Why was Manoj Abraham excluded from consideration?
Manoj Abraham was not considered due to the seniority and clean track record of the other three candidates.
When will the new police chief be appointed?
The new police chief is expected to be appointed before the outgoing DGP Sheikh Darvesh Saheb's retirement on June 30.
