The Supreme Court has agreed to urgently hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the Odisha government’s process of appointing the next Director General of Police (DGP).
The petition, argued by Senior Advocate P. Chidambaram before a Bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, alleges that the state government attempted to bypass the apex court’s guidelines laid down in the 2006 Prakash Singh case.
According to the petitioner, the Odisha government initially sent a panel of IPS officers to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and later withdrew it. A subsequent panel reportedly included three DGP‑rank officers and eight ADGP‑rank officers, despite UPSC’s indication on August 7 that only DGP‑level officers would be considered.
The PIL further claims that an ADGP was being promoted to DGP rank to qualify for inclusion in the panel, which would violate Supreme Court directions.
Responding to submissions, CJI Surya Kant observed that the UPSC is well aware of the eligibility criteria and the apex court’s rulings. “We expect the UPSC to adhere to our judgment,” he said, adding that if an ineligible panel is submitted, the Commission must act in accordance with earlier directions.
The urgent hearing underscores the significance of the DGP appointment process, which carries major implications for law enforcement leadership and governance in Odisha.
