Chandigarh: The process for appointing a permanent Director General of Police (DGP) in Punjab has officially commenced following a strict directive from the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Adhering to Supreme Court orders, the Commission has requested the Punjab government to submit a panel of eligible candidates within 10 days. This move follows the apex court’s recent criticism of states employing “acting” or “provisional” DGPs and its instruction to the UPSC to take action against such practices.
Current Leadership and Legal Context
Gaurav Yadav, a 1992-batch IPS officer, has served as the acting DGP of Punjab since July 2022. His appointment by the current administration came shortly after it assumed power, resulting in the removal of several senior officials. Yadav has now held the position for over three years and seven months.
The UPSC’s letter to the Punjab Chief Secretary, dated February 18, 2026, cites several legal precedents, including the landmark September 2006 Prakash Singh judgment and subsequent Supreme Court orders from July 2018 and February 2026. The Commission warned that failure to submit the proposal on time could lead to legal consequences for those responsible.
Selection Process and Eligible Candidates
The UPSC Empanelment Committee will select three candidates based on seniority, service record, and experience. From this shortlist, the Punjab government will appoint one officer as the permanent DGP. The committee includes the UPSC Chairman, the Union Home Secretary or their nominee, the head of a Central Police Organization, and the State’s Chief Secretary and DGP.
Punjab currently has a top-heavy force with 17 officers holding the DGP rank. Several 1992-batch officers are among the top contenders for the permanent post:
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Gaurav Yadav: Currently the acting chief, his retirement is scheduled for April 30, 2029.
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Sharad Satya Chauhan: Serving as Special DGP and MD of the Punjab Police Housing Corporation, he retires on March 31, 2028.
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Harpreet Singh Sidhu: Recently repatriated to the Punjab cadre from a central deputation with the ITBP, his retirement is set for May 31, 2027.
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Kuldeep Singh: Currently the Special DGP of the Anti-Drug Special Task Force (STF), he is set to retire on December 31, 2026.
