New Delhi: The Union Government has proposed a major restructuring of leadership positions in India’s paramilitary forces through a new legislative framework governing the Central Armed Police Forces. The proposal outlines fixed deputation quotas for senior ranks, significantly increasing the presence of Indian Police Service officers in top command positions.
According to the draft provisions, at least 50 per cent of posts at the rank of Inspector General and a minimum of 67 per cent of positions at the Additional Director General level will be filled through deputation. The highest positions of Special Director General and Director General are proposed to be filled entirely through deputation. The remaining posts at these levels would be occupied by cadre officers from within the respective forces, leaving limited but defined opportunities for internal promotions.
The proposed legislation is expected to be introduced in the Rajya Sabha on March 23 by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The bill seeks to create a unified legal framework governing recruitment, promotion, deputation and service conditions across all CAPFs.
CAPFs play a critical role in India’s national security system. These forces are responsible for guarding borders, maintaining internal security and conducting counter insurgency operations across the country. The government argues that their specialised operational role requires a clear and consistent legal structure to manage personnel policies effectively.
Currently, recruitment and service rules for CAPFs are governed by separate regulations under different laws. This fragmented structure has often resulted in inconsistencies and legal disputes related to service matters. The proposed law aims to address these challenges by introducing an umbrella framework designed to bring uniformity while maintaining the operational requirements of each force.
The bill also proposes to expand the authority of the Central Government in framing personnel policies. It will allow the government to make rules governing recruitment methods, promotions and deputation, with provisions that can override conflicting laws or court orders where necessary.
Another key aspect of the proposal is the formal institutionalisation of IPS deputation to CAPFs. The government maintains that IPS officers play an important role in ensuring coordination between the Centre and the states, which is crucial for managing national security operations.
Existing recruitment rules will continue to remain in force until new regulations are notified under the proposed law. The government will also have the power to amend schedules relating to CAPFs through official notifications, subject to parliamentary scrutiny.
Officials have indicated that the proposal does not involve any additional financial burden on the Consolidated Fund of India. However, the deputation quotas, particularly the requirement that at least 67 per cent of Additional Director General posts be filled through deputation, are expected to generate significant debate as the bill moves forward in Parliament.
