The rumor mill is abuzz with speculations about significant changes in Delhi’s top administration and police leadership, sparking increased activity in both the police and administrative circles.
Many anticipate that officials will replace Naresh Kumar, the Chief Secretary who has received two extensions. Additionally, Sanjay Arora, who took charge of the Delhi Police two years ago, is also likely to step down.
Naresh Kumar’s Extended Tenure
Naresh Kumar, an IAS officer from the 1987 batch, became Delhi’s Chief Secretary in April 2022. Initially set to retire in November 2023, his tenure received a six-month extension based on favorable recommendations from the central government.
They granted a further three-month extension before his term ends in May 2024. Kumar was also given the additional responsibility of Chairperson of the New Delhi Municipal Council. His term is likely to conclude on 31 August.
Potential Successor: Dharmendra?
Sources suggest that the Ministry of Home Affairs has initiated the process to appoint a new Chief Secretary. Among the top contenders is Dharmendra, the Chief Secretary of Arunachal Pradesh from the 1989 batch. Other potential candidates include Debashree Mukherjee from the 1990 batch, currently with the Ministry of Jal Shakti, and Punit Goyal, the Chief Secretary of Goa.
Delhi Police To See A Leadership Change
Following the failure of former Delhi Police Commissioner SN Srivastava during the Delhi riots, there have been significant changes in the Delhi Police.
Sanjay Arora, an IPS officer from the Tamil Nadu cadre who took over two years ago, has struggled to address issues such as rising corruption, traffic management failures, and increasing crime rates.
The Delhi Police’s tarnished reputation and ongoing allegations of extortion at higher levels have led to speculation about Arora’s imminent departure.
SBK Singh’s Chances Slim
Officials have mentioned SBK Singh, an officer from the 1988 batch, as a potential candidate for Delhi Police Commissioner.
However, insiders believe his chances are slim, partly due to the recent appointment of Govind Mohan from the Sikkim cadre as the new Home Secretary.
Given that Delhi Police operates directly under the Ministry of Home Affairs, it is unlikely that a senior official from the Ministry will be appointed as Commissioner.
1992 Batch Officers In The Running
Among the remaining candidates, officials consider Satish Golcha and MM Oberoi from the 1992 batch as viable options.
However, MM Oberoi’s close ties with Congress leader Ajay Maken may hinder his prospects.
The search for Delhi Police’s new leader continues as the administration prepares for these impending changes.
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