New Delhi (10.12.2024): The Supreme Court of India sought responses from six states -- Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, UP, Punjab, Uttarakhand and West Bengal -- on a plea alleging non-compliance to Apex Court’s directives over appointment of Directors General of Police in these states.

A plea was filed accusing seven states -- Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, UP, Punjab, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, and Jharkhand -- did not allegedly comply with the 2006 judgement of the SC in the Praksah Singh case and the subsequent directions on appointment of DGP.

But the Jharkhand government already filed its reply. The matter was brought to the attention of the court through a plea filed by Jan Sewa Trust, alleging widespread violations of court-mandated procedures. These include the stipulation of a two-year fixed tenure for DGPs and their selection from a panel of the three most senior and eligible IPS officers prepared by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

The bench directed the states to submit their written responses within six weeks, allowing four weeks thereafter for rejoinders. The court emphasised the importance of adhering to its landmark 2006 verdict in the Prakash Singh case, laying down guidelines for ensuring transparency and fairness in the appointment of police chiefs.