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IPS Deputation to CAPFs Continues Despite Supreme Court Ruling

04 Jul 2025 GS 2 Polity

Context: Despite a Supreme Court ruling (May 23, 2024) directing the progressive reduction of IPS officer deputation in the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) within two years, the Union Home Ministry has continued appointing IPS officers to senior positions. Since the verdict, at least eight IPS officers have been appointed at ranks from Commandant to Inspector-General (IG).

Key Issues:

  • SC Judgment in Sanjay Prakash vs. Union of India:

    • Recognised Group A CAPF officers as part of “Organised Services” for all purposes.

    • Ordered reduction in IPS deputation, particularly in SAG (Senior Administrative Grade) posts (DIG to IG level).

  • Current IPS Quota in CAPFs:

    • 20% of DIG posts

    • 50% of IG posts are reserved for IPS officers.

  • Petitioners’ Argument:

    • Continued IPS appointments violate SC orders and may amount to contempt of court.

    • Group A CAPF officers face stagnation, often taking 25 years to reach Commandant rank, instead of the prescribed 13 years.

Implications:

  • Around 13,000 Group A CAPF officers may benefit from the SC judgment through faster promotions and cadre restructuring.

  • The ruling challenges the dominance of IPS officers in CAPF leadership roles.

  • The Home Ministry, which controls both CAPFs and IPS cadre, is under scrutiny for non-compliance.

CAPFs include:

  • Border Security Force (BSF)

  • Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)

  • Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)

  • Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP)

  • Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB)

This issue reflects a significant civil services reform battle over institutional autonomy and career progression in India’s paramilitary forces.



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