Gaurav Yadav, the current head of the Punjab Police, is set to continue as the regular Director General of Police (DGP). The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has shortlisted him among three officers for the top post.
UPSC shortlists three officers for Punjab DGP post
The UPSC has shortlisted three officers from the eligible 1992 batch of the Indian Police Service (IPS). The Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government will now pick one of these three candidates to lead the state police force.
The three officers shortlisted, in order of seniority, are Sharad Satya Chauhan (retirement: March 31, 2028), Harpreet Singh Sidhu (retirement: May 31, 2027), and Gaurav Yadav (retirement: April 30, 2029).
Background of the appointment process
The AAP government had earlier resisted submitting the panel to the UPSC. The last DGP appointed through this process was V. K. Bhawra, whom the AAP government asked to proceed on leave.
With the UPSC now shortlisting the candidates, the process moves forward. The government is expected to make its final decision soon, and Gaurav Yadav remains a strong contender to continue in the role.
Our Take: A step towards stability for Punjab Police
In our view, this development brings much-needed clarity to the leadership of Punjab Police. The UPSC shortlist ensures that the selection follows a structured process, which is important for maintaining the integrity of the top police post. Gaurav Yadav's likely continuation provides continuity in the state's law and order efforts, especially in the fight against drugs and gangster culture. The AAP government's earlier hesitation to submit the panel may have caused delays, but the process is now on track.
