Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Several Inspector General (IG)-rank officers are awaiting field postings, while Rewa range has remained without an IG for over two and a half months, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
The absence of leadership in the region has raised concern, especially after the recent killing of an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) in Mauganj, a district under this range. The IG post in Rewa has been vacant since December 31, 2024, after the retirement of IG Mahendra Singh Sikarwar.
Despite the urgency, the government is yet to appoint a replacement. Notably, the Maha Kumbh began in January, and districts in this range faced heavy traffic congestion due to the influx of devotees. Many pilgrims returning from Kumbh also visited religious sites like Chitrakoot and Maihar, yet authorities could not address the situation adequately. The need for leadership became more evident after the tragic Mauganj incident, in which ASI Ramcharan Gautam was assaulted and killed.
The absence of a senior officer to oversee law enforcement in the region has raised questions about administrative preparedness and decision-making.
Many in queue
A significant number of Inspector General (IG)-rank officers are waiting for field postings at the Police Headquarters (PHQ) after being promoted. Despite their elevation, many officers have yet to be assigned a position, raising concerns over administrative delays.
Among those waiting is 2003-batch officer Ashok Kumar Goyel, who is set to retire soon without receiving a field posting. Similarly, 2004-batch officer Gourav Singh Rajput and 2005-batch officer Dr. Ashish remain unposted. Several 2006-batch officersóincluding Ruchivardhan Mishra, Chandrashekhar Solanki, Chitra N, Anshuman Singh, and Himani Khannaóare also awaiting assignments. In January 2025, officers from the 2007 batchóSachin Atulkar, Kumar Saurabh, Krishnaveni Desavasu and J.S.
Rajputówere promoted to IG rank. However, only two of them have received postings: Sachin Atulkar is currently holding charge in Chhindwara, while Kumar Saurabh has been assigned to Chambal range.
