SC raps govt over IPS deputation in CAPF, says in-house cadres 'stifled'
The Supreme Court of India has questioned the government's policy of deputing IPS officers to senior positions within Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). Justices expressed concern that this practice stifles the career progression of in-house cadre officers who have served for decades.
Why it matters
This highlights a significant institutional conflict regarding administrative control and career equity within India's national security apparatus.
New Delhi: Hearing the contempt petition filed by in-house cadres of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) against the 2026 legislation formalising the deputation of Indian Police Service officers in the CAPF, a division bench of the Supreme Court Wednesday questioned the Centre on its inability to resolve the tussle between IPS and in-house officers of paramilitary forces.
“Do you think that there are no competent officers in the central armed police forces to hold managerial positions?” Justice Ujjwal Bhuyan asked Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati. “It is wrong. Totally wrong. There are officers who have served for 25-30 years in CRPF, ITBP and BSF, and yet they have not been given…why are you treating them like this…they are also defending our borders. They are also fighting for us… Supreme sacrifices they have made…”
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