In a significant move, the Uttar Pradesh government executed a major bureaucratic reshuffle in the police department, transferring 11 senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officers across key districts. This reshuffle, which took place on April 15, 2025, reflects the state’s ongoing efforts to address administrative needs and enhance law enforcement efficiency across various regions.

The Key Transfers

Several high-profile posts across districts like Prayagraj, Bulandshahr, Mathura, Meerut, and Barabanki were affected, with new appointments being made in strategic positions. Here’s a look at the complete reshuffle list:

• Neelabja Chaudhary, previously Additional Director General of Police (ATS) in Lucknow, has been appointed as the Additional Director General of Police, CID, in Lucknow.

• Ajay Kumar Mishra, the Police Commissioner of Ghaziabad, has been transferred to the position of Inspector General of Police, Prayagraj Range.

• J Ravindra Goud, Police Commissioner of Agra, will now serve as the Police Commissioner of Ghaziabad.

• Deepak Kumar, Inspector General of Police (Agra Range), will take over as the Police Commissioner of Agra.

• Prem Kumar Gautam, Inspector General of Police (Prayagraj Range), has been moved to Inspector General of Police, ATS, Lucknow.

• Shailesh Kumar Pandey, previously Deputy Inspector General/Senior Superintendent of Police (Mathura), will now serve as the Inspector General of Police, Agra Range.

• Anil Kumar, Senior Superintendent of Police (Bulandshahr), has been appointed as the Senior Superintendent of Police, Mathura.

• Dinesh Kumar Singh, Superintendent of Police (Barabanki), will now hold the position of Senior Superintendent of Police, Bulandshahr.

• Premchand, Superintendent of Police (Police Recruitment and Promotion Board, Lucknow), has been appointed as the Commandant, 6th Battalion PAC, Meerut.

• Amit Vijayvargiya, Superintendent of Police (Bahraich), will now take over as the Superintendent of Police, Barabanki.

• Suraj Kumar Rai, Commandant (6th Battalion PAC, Meerut), has been transferred as the Superintendent of Police, Bahraich.

The Conflict Behind Ghaziabad Police Commissioner’s Transfer

One of the most significant changes in this reshuffle is the transfer of Ghaziabad Police Commissioner Ajay Kumar Mishra. The move follows an escalating conflict between Mishra and BJP MLA Nand Kishore Gurjar from the Loni constituency. The tensions between the two had reached a boiling point after an incident during a Kalash Yatra in Loni on March 20.

The police had attempted to stop the yatra due to lack of permission, but MLA Gurjar denied this, claiming all necessary approvals were in place. This disagreement turned into a physical altercation, with police resorting to a lathi charge during which Gurjar’s kurta was torn. In protest, the MLA declared he would wear the torn kurta and remain barefoot until action was taken against the police commissioner.

The conflict intensified as Gurjar accused Mishra of corruption and illegal activities such as cow slaughter. The situation sparked widespread public unrest and brought the matter to the attention of senior political figures. The Gurjar community, in support of the MLA, even planned a meeting with the Prime Minister, though it was postponed following intervention by Uma Bharti, a senior BJP leader and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister.

Broader Implications and Impact

This reshuffle is part of the ongoing effort by the Uttar Pradesh government to strengthen its police force and ensure efficient law enforcement across the state. The police department's leadership is crucial for maintaining public order, especially in key districts like Prayagraj, Mathura, and Meerut, which have seen significant political and social developments in recent months.

The reshuffle also reflects the state’s response to local tensions and the need for experienced officers to manage districts with diverse challenges. For example, the reassignment of Ajay Kumar Mishra from Ghaziabad to Prayagraj is seen as an effort to address local security needs amid the political upheaval involving MLA Gurjar.

Conclusion

The major reshuffle of 11 IPS officers underscores the state government’s focus on improving police administration and political neutrality in handling critical issues. As the transfers take effect, they are expected to impact law enforcement dynamics in some of Uttar Pradesh’s most high-profile districts. While the conflict surrounding Ajay Kumar Mishra has dominated the news, it highlights the larger challenges of managing police relations with political figures and the public. The reshuffling, therefore, not only addresses the immediate administrative needs but also signals the state's focus on achieving long-term police reforms and operational efficiency.

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