West Bengal’s government has escalated its search for a new police chief by submitting eight elite IPS officers’ names to the central authorities. Despatched on January 21, the roster features retiring acting DGP Rajeev Kumar plus Ranvir Kumar, Debashish Roy, Anuj Sharma, Jagmohan, N. Ramesh Babu, and Siddhinath Gupta.
The UPSC-led process ensures merit-based selection: state lists qualify candidates, commission picks three. Post-Malaviya’s December retirement, Kumar’s spot acknowledges his service, sans reappointment assurance.
Buzzed names include security expert Piyush Pandey (CM’s protector and ex-SPG), Rajesh Kumar, and Ranvir Kumar—each with robust credentials in crisis management and administration.
Retry follows a bungled December 27 panel, rejected for errors beyond the three-month rule. CAT’s nudge via Rajesh Kumar’s suit mandated January 23 refile, UPSC huddle by 28th, and return by 29th.
Timing is acute amid the state’s volatile security canvas. The successor must tackle entrenched issues like political violence and civic unrest decisively. This high-wire act tests governance resolve, with UPSC’s input set to crown the force’s apex leader.