The Maharashtra government has appointed senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Sadanand Date as the new Director General of Police (DGP) for the state. The 1990-batch officer, known for his distinguished career and expertise in handling complex security and anti-terror operations, will now lead one of India's largest police forces.
A Career Defined by Key Postings and Anti-Terror Expertise
Sadanand Date's appointment follows a meticulous selection process by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). He was chosen from a panel of three senior officers shortlisted for the top post. Date, who belongs to the 1990 batch of the IPS, is currently serving as the Director of the National Security Guard (NSG). His career is marked by significant tenures in critical roles.
He previously served as the Commissioner of Police for Mumbai, India's financial capital, where he oversaw law and order in the megacity. His deep experience in counter-terrorism was honed during his long association with the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of Maharashtra. Date played a pivotal role in investigating several high-profile terror cases, bringing him national recognition.
The Selection Process and the Road to Leadership
The selection of the state police chief is a rigorous procedure. The UPSC empanelment committee, led by its chairman, interviews eligible officers and recommends a panel of names to the state government. The Maharashtra government, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, then makes the final appointment from this list.
Date's appointment comes at a crucial time for the Maharashtra Police, which faces evolving challenges ranging from cybercrime and organized crime to maintaining public order. His background in elite central armed police forces like the NSG, combined with his extensive ground-level experience in Maharashtra, is seen as a major asset for the force's modernization and operational effectiveness.
What This Means for Maharashtra's Security Apparatus
As the new Director General of Police, Sadanand Date will be responsible for setting the strategic direction for over 200,000 police personnel. His immediate priorities are likely to include strengthening intelligence gathering, enhancing coastal security given the state's long coastline, and implementing technology-driven policing initiatives.
His proven track record in crisis management and investigation is expected to bring a focused approach to complex criminal and security issues. The law enforcement community views his leadership as a step towards reinforcing the state's capability to tackle both conventional and emerging threats effectively.
The formal orders for his appointment were issued on December 3, 2024, and he is set to assume his new responsibilities immediately, marking a new chapter for the police force in Maharashtra.
