In a major development, the Central Government has sent a third letter to the Jharkhand Government, demanding the immediate removal of Director General of Police (DGP) Anurag Gupta, a 1989-batch IPS officer of the Jharkhand cadre. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has declared his continued service as unconstitutional and in violation of Supreme Court directives.
Centre Cancels Service Extension
As per the latest communication, the Union Home Ministry has revoked Anurag Gupta’s service extension, stating that he officially retired on April 30. The letter emphasizes that his continuation beyond the retirement date contravenes constitutional provisions and established Supreme Court guidelines regarding police appointments.
State’s Appointment Process Rejected
Earlier this year, the Jharkhand government introduced new rules on January 8, allowing Gupta to be reappointed for a two-year term starting February 2. However, the Centre has dismissed this process, arguing that the rule change and the reappointment are not aligned with constitutional procedures and therefore invalid.
Silence from State Authorities
Despite the gravity of the Centre’s directive, there has been no formal response from the Jharkhand administration. When approached, Home Secretary Vandana Dadel declined to comment and redirected queries to the Chief Secretary. Attempts to reach Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari were unsuccessful.
Sources indicate that day-long discussions were held on Tuesday in the offices of the Chief Secretary and Home Secretary to assess the contents and implications of the Centre’s letter.
Key Law & Order Meeting Postponed
In the wake of the unfolding administrative crisis, a crucial law and order review meeting scheduled for Tuesday was abruptly postponed. The meeting was intended to address pressing issues such as:
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Cybercrime
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Arms smuggling
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Infiltration
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Crimes against women and Dalits
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Land disputes
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Mob lynching
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Communal tensions
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Illegal mining
The meeting was to be held at 2 PM at Project Bhawan, with participation expected from DGP Anurag Gupta, Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari, and Home Secretary Vandana Dadel, along with DCs and SPs joining via video conferencing.
Political and Legal Ramifications Ahead
With the Centre escalating the matter and invoking constitutional and judicial authority, the situation is poised to trigger serious political and legal consequences. If the Jharkhand government continues to resist the directive, it could potentially lead to a constitutional standoff between the state and central governments.
