In a major administrative overhaul ahead of the state elections, the Pinarayi Vijayan-led Kerala government has transferred nine senior and mid-level IPS officers in a move widely seen as a strategic realignment. The reshuffle includes the creation of two temporary ex-cadre posts, signaling a possible effort to consolidate administrative control during the election period.
Key Changes & New Appointments
Yogesh Gupta (IPS: 1993: KL), previously Director of the Vigilance & Anti-Corruption Bureau, has been appointed as Director General, Fire & Rescue Services.
Manoj Abraham (IPS: 1994: KL), formerly DG of Fire & Rescue Services, will now take charge as Director, Vigilance & Anti-Corruption Bureau.
M R Ajithkumar (IPS: 1995: KL), earlier ADG of Armed Police Battalions, has been named the new Excise Commissioner—a newly created ex-cadre post (Level 15).
Balram Kumar Upadhyay (IPS: 1997: KL), DG of Prisons and Correctional Services, has been shifted to Director, Kerala Police Academy (KEPA).
Mahipal Yadav (IPS: 1997: KL), the outgoing Excise Commissioner, will now serve as Additional DG of Police, Crimes.
G Sparjan Kumar (IPS: 2002: KL), IG (Intelligence), has been moved to IG, Crimes I, Thiruvananthapuram.
P Prakash (IPS: 2004: KL), IG (Crimes III, Kozhikode), has been posted as IG, Coastal Police.
K Sethu Raman (IPS: 2004: KL), former Director of KEPA, takes over as IG & DG of Prisons & Correctional Services, filling the second newly created ex-cadre post (Level 14).
A Akbar (IPS: 2005: KL), IG (Crimes II, Kochi), has been appointed as IG, Internal Security.
Strategic Implications
The restructuring, though routine on the surface, is being interpreted as a tactical maneuver to strengthen oversight in key departments—particularly vigilance, excise, and internal security—ahead of the polls. The two new ex-cadre posts (Excise Commissioner and IG/DG of Prisons) have been established for a one-year term, effective May 9, 2025, further fueling speculation about the government’s long-term administrative strategy.
