The standoff between the Centre and the Jharkhand state government over the extension of Director General of Police (DGP) Anurag Gupta’s tenure has intensified. So much so that the DGP’s salary disbursement has been halted following his retirement date on 30 April.
According to reports, the Accountant General’s office in Jharkhand has issued a zero-salary slip to Gupta for the month of May, indicating he will not receive any further remuneration post-April 2025.
The AG office stated it has not received any formal communication from the state government validating the extension of Gupta’s service. As per the rules, without such documentation, his continuation in the role cannot be recognised for salary processing.
In light of this, both DGP Gupta and the Treasury have been formally informed of the decision. This development effectively confirms that Gupta will not draw a government salary going forward, unless the extension is officially approved and communicated.
The Centre is firm on its position, maintaining that Gupta’s tenure ended on 30 April as per the IAS and IPS officers’ service rules. It has sent a third letter to the state government reiterating that his continuation lacks legal standing.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs had earlier conveyed that the move to retain Gupta beyond his retirement was inappropriate and went against established service norms.
On the other hand, the state government has framed its own rules for the appointment of the DGP in Jharkhand and maintains that removing Gupta before completing two years as regular DGP would be in violation of a Supreme Court directive.
The situation underscores the ongoing power struggle between the state and central governments over control of key bureaucratic appointments.
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