Patna: The Bihar government has extended the additional charge of 1991-batch IPS officer Preeta Verma as the state’s acting Director General of Police (DGP).
An order issued by the Home Department states that Verma will continue to hold the additional charge of Bihar DGP until further orders.
Verma is currently serving as Director General-cum-Commandant General of Home Guards and Fire Services in Bihar.
Additional DGP Charge Extended
Preeta Verma was given the additional responsibility of Bihar DGP after former DGP Vinay Kumar went on extended leave.
Vinay Kumar subsequently took voluntary retirement from service and was later appointed as the State Chief Information Commissioner, leaving the regular DGP post vacant.
With the position continuing to await a permanent appointment, the state government has now extended Verma’s additional charge.
UPSC Panel Prepared for Regular DGP Appointment
The process for selecting Bihar’s regular DGP is also underway.
The state government had forwarded the list of eligible IPS officers to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Following the process, a panel of three eligible officers has reportedly been prepared and sent to the Bihar government.
The final decision on the appointment will be taken by the state government.
Preeta Verma Among Names in DGP Race
Preeta Verma’s continuation as acting DGP has drawn attention because her name is also being considered in the race for the regular post.
If appointed as Bihar’s permanent DGP, she could become the first woman to head the Bihar Police as Director General of Police, although no final decision has been announced.
Her current role places her among the senior officers being watched closely as the government considers the final appointment.
B. Srinivasan and Jitendra Singh Gangwar Also in Contention
Another prominent name in the selection process is 1992-batch IPS officer B. Srinivasan, who is currently serving as Director General of the National Security Guard (NSG) on central deputation.
1993-batch IPS officer Jitendra Singh Gangwar is also considered a key contender. Gangwar has served in Bihar in senior police positions, including as DGP Vigilance, and has extensive experience in police administration.
Final Decision Awaited
The extension of Preeta Verma’s additional charge provides continuity at the top of the Bihar Police while the process for appointing a regular DGP continues.
The state government’s final decision will depend on the panel recommended through the UPSC process. Until then, Verma will continue to discharge the responsibilities of acting DGP until further orders.
