The decision is being viewed as strategically significant because Gujarat is preparing to host major international sporting events in the coming years, beginning with the World Police and Fire Games in 2029 and potentially the Commonwealth Games in 2030.

The state has already secured hosting rights for the World Police and Fire Games, which will be held in Ahmedabad in 2029. These games are being treated as a major international precursor ahead of Gujarat’s larger ambition to successfully host the Commonwealth Games in 2030.

Sahay retired as Gujarat DGP on December 31, 2025, after a long career marked by high-profile administrative and policing assignments. He originally became in-charge DGP in January 2023 and later took over as regular DGP in March 2023. Though scheduled to retire earlier, he received a six-month service extension in public interest before completing his tenure.