Jaipur: In a major leadership change, Rajeev Kumar Sharma, a 1990-batch IPS officer, has officially taken over as the Director General of Police (DGP) for Rajasthan. His appointment was finalized after the UPSC panel’s recommendation and approval from the Central Government. He replaces Utkal Ranjan Sahoo, who opted for voluntary retirement to serve as Chairman of the State Public Service Commission.
Sharma’s selection is being seen as a merit-based and policy-aligned move—moving away from political precedent and toward institutional fairness.
Why Sharma Was the Natural Choice:
Among the shortlisted names—Rajesh Nirvana (1991 batch) and Sanjay Agarwal (1992 batch)—Sharma stood out for multiple reasons:
Seniority and Proven Leadership: With over three decades in service, he has held key roles such as DG (Law & Order), DG (ACB), and Director of the Rajasthan Police Academy, earning a reputation for modernizing police training.
Reputation for Integrity: His brief tenure as DG, Anti-Corruption Bureau in 2024 was widely appreciated for its transparency and professionalism.
Strategic Fit: The Bhajanlal Sharma-led government preferred someone who could blend experience with reform-oriented thinking. Sharma’s profile aligned with this vision.
Social Inclusivity: His appointment also meets social representation considerations in Rajasthan’s caste-sensitive political landscape.
Compliant with SC Guidelines: His two-year fixed tenure fulfills the Supreme Court’s directive—a rule often bypassed in earlier DGP appointments.
The Bigger Picture:
The UPSC panel, finalized on June 27, originally included four names, though Rajesh Arya withdrew from consideration. While Sharma has taken charge, Nirvana and Agarwal remain in the frame for future leadership roles, with Govind Gupta (1993 batch) also emerging as a potential candidate down the line.
This appointment signals a departure from politically-driven selections seen under earlier administrations. Instead, it reinforces professionalism, seniority, and administrative integrity at the top of Rajasthan Police.
As Rajeev Kumar Sharma steps into his new role, expectations are high for a tenure defined by stability, reform, and impartial leadership.
