Supreme Court presses Centre on IPS officer deployment in paramilitary forces

The Supreme Court on Monday sought a detailed explanation from the Union government on the deputation of IPS officers to Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), raising concerns about the career prospects and operational constraints faced by cadre personnel. Justice Ujjal Bhuyan, hearing the matter, expressed that officers from CAPF cadres are "completely stifled" in their professional advancement and functioning, indicating a fundamental issue with the current deputation framework. The court's intervention underscores growing judicial scrutiny of personnel management practices within paramilitary organisations that play a crucial role in internal security operations across the country. In response to the court's concerns, the Home Ministry informed the bench that it has already initiated steps to implement the Supreme Court's earlier directions on the matter. The ministry further stated that cadre reviews have been launched across all CAPFs to address structural and operational issues affecting officer postings and career progression. These reviews are expected to provide recommendations for streamlining deputation policies and ensuring better utilisation of IPS officers within paramilitary structures. The matter highlights the ongoing tension between centralised personnel management and the operational autonomy of individual paramilitary forces, with the court seeking to balance institutional requirements against officer welfare and professional development.