What began as a routine appointment on 10 June—naming Ravi Prakash Meharda as Acting DGP of Rajasthan—has escalated into a politically charged issue for the ruling BJP.
Meharda replaced Utkal Ranjan Sahoo, who was appointed Chairman of the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC).
At first, Meharda’s appointment appeared procedural. He was due to retire on 30 June, giving him just 20 days in the top role.
However, with his retirement imminent, calls for extending his tenure are intensifying, turning the transition into a major political flashpoint.
Dr Meharda, a senior Dalit IPS officer, now stands at the centre of a larger campaign for symbolic inclusion. Retired IPS officers, Dalit groups, BJP leaders, and civil society activists are pressing the government to extend his tenure.
They argue that a mere 20-day term diminishes the symbolic weight of his appointment, which many saw as a move to strengthen Dalit representation in top administrative roles.
Supporters have launched a strong outreach campaign. They are petitioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, and the BJP’s central leadership through emails and social media.
Many view Meharda’s appointment as a calculated political step to win over Dalit voters. But the short duration of his tenure has sparked discontent within the community.
Interestingly, sources say Meharda initially hesitated to accept the post, citing its short duration and limited scope for impact.
Nonetheless, the state government moved forward with the appointment, reportedly for its strategic political value.
Government weighs options as June 30 nears
Meanwhile, the state government has forwarded a list of seven senior IPS officers to the Centre for appointment as the permanent DGP.
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will shortlist three names, and the state will make the final selection.
Still, Rule 16 of the All India Services (Death-cum-Retirement Benefits) Rules permits the government, with central approval, to grant an extension of up to three months.
Supporters are urging the state to use this provision to extend Meharda’s term, citing both administrative continuity and community sentiment.
As 30 June approaches, the BJP faces a delicate balancing act. It must weigh bureaucratic norms against political messaging, especially in an era where identity and symbolic representation are key drivers of public discourse.
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