CAPF Bill: 50% IG posts reserved for IPS; 67% ADG posts on deputation

The Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026 is expected to be tabled in the Lok Sabha on Monday, aiming to codify how IPS officers are posted on deputation across the five CAPFs and to create a single umbrella framework for their governance. The government argues that IPS officers are essential for effective functioning and for maintaining clear Centre-State coordination in national security duties. The draft bill specifically mandates that 67% of posts at the Additional Director General (ADG) level be filled by IPS officers on deputation, 50% in the Inspector General (IG) level, and 100% in the ranks of Special Director General (SDG) and Director General (DG). It also states that in case of any inconsistency between the rules under this Act and other rules, the rules under this Act will prevail. This is presented as a move to streamline leadership across CAPFs and provide a cohesive framework for their administration. The bill comes amid objections from CAPF associations, which have long challenged the practice of appointing IPS officers to senior deputation posts, arguing it skews merit and morale within the forces. They have even approached the Supreme Court, which in May 2025 ordered the government to progressively reduce IPS deputation up to the rank of IGs in the CAPFs. Proponents of the bill say the measure will enhance coordination between the Centre and the States and strengthen national security functions performed by the CAPFs, while critics warn of potential over-concentration of IPS leadership within the forces. If enacted, the bill would codify current practices and set clear numerical targets for IPS involvement at each senior level, shaping career trajectories and inter-agency dynamics for years to come.

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