In a landmark ruling aimed at reforming the structure and uplifting morale within the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), the Supreme Court on Friday directed that the long-overdue cadre review of all CAPFs — including CRPF, BSF, ITBP, CISF, and SSB — be completed within six months.
Expedited Review Mandated
A bench comprising Justices Abhay S. Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan emphasized that the cadre review, originally scheduled for 2021, must now be fast-tracked in view of the critical role CAPFs play in ensuring both border and internal security.
Key Directives from the Court
The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) must make a decision within three months of receiving the Ministry of Home Affairs’ (MHA) action-taken report.
The Court recommended that the number of posts reserved for Indian Police Service (IPS) officers on deputation to CAPFs — up to the Senior Administrative Grade (SAG) level — be gradually reduced over the next two years. This is to create more promotion avenues for CAPF cadre officers.
The bench stressed the importance of balancing operational requirements with the pressing need to resolve career stagnation among CAPF personnel.
Issues Raised and Addressed
This judgment follows multiple petitions seeking:
Non-Functional Financial Upgradation (NFFU),
Cadre restructuring, and
Amendments to recruitment rules to reduce IPS deputation and prioritize promotions for CAPF cadre officers.
While the Court acknowledged the government’s view that IPS officers bring valuable administrative experience to CAPFs, it clarified that neither individual IPS officers nor their associations have the authority to determine the scope or duration of such deputations.
The bench also highlighted the “long-standing grievance” of CAPF officers who feel sidelined in key decisions and denied fair career progression, resulting in low morale and stagnation at higher levels.
“Their dedicated service in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, borders, and internal security must not be ignored or undervalued,” the Court observed.
Striking a Balance
This directive is seen as a major step toward empowering CAPF cadre officers and ensuring equitable career growth, without compromising the operational effectiveness of the forces. The Court urged the Centre to find a balanced approach that respects both the functional demands of the forces and the legitimate aspirations of their officers.
This significant judgment is expected to catalyze long-awaited reforms in India’s paramilitary structure, enhance internal governance, and boost the morale of thousands of personnel serving under difficult and demanding conditions.
