Shimla, July 16,
Himachal Pradesh is poised for a significant shake-up in its police leadership as 1990-batch IPS officer Shyam Bhagat Negi is likely to return from central deputation and take over as the next Director General of Police (DGP). The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has already cleared his repatriation to the parent cadre, paving the way for his elevation.
Currently serving as Special Secretary in the Cabinet Secretariat, Negi is the senior-most IPS officer in the Himachal cadre and hails from the tribal district of Kinnaur. If appointed, he will have a tenure of nearly eight months before his retirement on March 31, 2026.
The state government had earlier finalized a three-member panel for the DGP post, which included Shyam Bhagat Negi, 1993-batch officer Ashok Tiwari, and 1994-batch officer Rakesh Agarwal, who is also on central deputation and has reportedly expressed willingness to return.
Presently, Ashok Tiwari is holding interim charge as acting DGP, after the controversial exit of former police chief Dr. Atul Verma. Verma was placed on long leave just four days prior to his retirement, amid ongoing investigations linked to the Chief Engineer Vimal Negi case, raising eyebrows within the police force and administrative circles.
Sources confirm that the state government has already obtained consent from Shyam Bhagat Negi for his inclusion in the final panel and his appointment is now only a matter of formalities. The official notification is expected shortly after the Union Government issues relieving orders.
However, the reshuffle is expected to extend beyond just the top post. Key wings including intelligence, crime, and vigilance are also likely to witness changes once the new police chief assumes office. Senior officers within the department are already anticipating a new posting landscape.
Adding to the complexity, another 1990-batch IPS officer, Anurag Garg, is currently serving as Director General in the Narcotics Control Bureau, but his name has not figured in the immediate panel for DGP, hinting at the government’s clear preference for Negi.
If appointed, Negi’s elevation will mark a return of tribal leadership at the helm of the state police force after a considerable gap. His experience at the Centre and clean track record are believed to have worked in his favor.
As the security architecture of Himachal Pradesh stands on the brink of transition, all eyes are now on the formal announcement, which could potentially reshape the leadership of the state police for the crucial months ahead.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
