Encounter Specialist and ‘Singing Star’: Who Is IPS Alok Raj, the New Chairman of BSSC?

Senior IPS officer and former Director General of Police (DGP) Alok Raj has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Bihar Staff Selection Commission (BSSC). The appointment, effective from January 1, 2026, will remain valid for five years or until he attains the age of 65, whichever is earlier. The General Administration Department issued an official notification in this regard on Wednesday.

The Bihar government has entrusted Alok Raj with this key responsibility in view of his disciplined administrative approach, reputation for transparency, and extensive experience. Prior to this, he served as Director General-cum-Managing Director of the Bihar Police Building Construction Corporation.

1989 Batch IPS Officer with Vast Administrative Experience

Alok Raj is a 1989-batch IPS officer with a long and distinguished career spanning over three decades. He has held several crucial positions in police administration and public sector undertakings, earning a reputation as a firm yet fair officer.

As BSSC Chairman, he will be responsible for ensuring fair, transparent, and time-bound recruitment to Group ‘B’ and Group ‘C’ posts across various Bihar government departments—an area that directly impacts lakhs of job aspirants.

Encounter Specialist, Decorated with Gallantry Medal

Soon after joining the Indian Police Service, Alok Raj was posted as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in Patna. During his career, he was involved in encounters with four dreaded criminals, for which he was awarded a Gallantry Medal.

In undivided Bihar, he served as Superintendent of Police in several sensitive districts, including Ranchi, Gumla, Deoghar, West Singhbhum, Hazaribagh, Sitamarhi, and Begusarai, where he proved his leadership and operational skills. He has also rendered his services in Jharkhand and West Bengal.

Seven Years in CRPF, Honoured with DG Disc

Between 2004 and 2011, Alok Raj served in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), where he played a significant role in internal security operations. For his exemplary service, he was honoured with the DG’s Commendation Disc, one of the force’s prestigious recognitions.

Gold Medallist from Muzaffarpur

A native of Muzaffarpur district, Alok Raj holds an MSc in Geology from Patna University, where he was a Gold Medallist. His strong academic background has often been cited as a foundation for his analytical and methodical administrative style.

A Tough Officer with a Creative Soul

Beyond his image as a tough “encounter specialist,” Alok Raj is also known for his love for art and music. He is an accomplished singer and has performed on several public platforms. Videos of his musical performances have also been shared widely on social media, earning him the nickname of a ‘singing star’ IPS officer.

Big Responsibility Ahead

The Bihar Staff Selection Commission plays a critical role in government recruitment, making its credibility vital. Alok Raj formally assumes charge as BSSC Chairman today. His biggest challenge will be to restore and strengthen public trust by conducting examinations and selection processes that are transparent, corruption-free, and efficient.

With his blend of administrative rigor, integrity, and public appeal, expectations are high that IPS Alok Raj will bring much-needed reforms to the functioning of the BSSC.