Uttar Pradesh braces for a major leadership change in its police force as current Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar is set to retire on May 31st. This impending retirement has sparked intense speculation and discussions within administrative and political circles, from the Signature Building and Lok Bhavan to the Chief Minister’s residence and opposition party offices, reaching all the way to Delhi. The central question revolves around who will be entrusted with the critical responsibility of leading the state police after Kumar’s departure. Adding to the intrigue is the possibility of an extension for the current DGP, a scenario that is gaining considerable traction amidst the ongoing deliberations.

Sources close to the administration suggest that an extension for Prashant Kumar is a strong possibility. This speculation is largely fueled by his reputation as one of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s most trusted and favored officers. His close relationship with the CM was reportedly a key factor in his appointment as acting DGP. While no official announcement has been made by either the state or central government, the buzz in administrative corridors indicates that if an extension is not granted, the state will embark on a search for a new DGP. Potential candidates being actively discussed include senior IPS officers like Rajiv Krishna, B.K. Maurya, and Tilottama Verma. The final decision, whether it’s a new face or an extended tenure for Prashant Kumar, will undoubtedly be significantly influenced by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s preferences and the prevailing political dynamics.

Prashant Kumar, a 1990 batch IPS officer, is currently serving as the acting DGP of Uttar Pradesh. Hailing from Siwan district in Bihar, he is renowned within the UP police for his sharp operational skills and his stringent actions against organized crime and mafia elements. Under his leadership, the UP police have conducted over 300 encounters, resulting in the neutralization of several notorious criminals. He has held crucial positions such as ADG in Meerut Zone, DGP Law and Order, and DGP Economic Offenses Wing, showcasing a broad and impactful career trajectory within the force.