Rajasthan Police Shake-Up: Sub-Inspectors to Take Charge of Police Stations, DGP Sets Conditions

Jaipur, Rajasthan: In a major strategic shift, the Rajasthan Police have decided to allow experienced Sub-Inspectors (SIs) to take charge of police stations, addressing the acute shortage of Inspectors across the state. The directive, issued by DGP Rajeev Sharma, aims to improve law and order in peaceful regions while freeing senior officers to be deployed in sensitive areas.

SIs Step Up in Peaceful Areas

According to the new order, Sub-Inspectors with at least five years of active field experience can be appointed as Station In-Charge (Thana Adhikari) in low-crime areas. This move is expected to enhance operational efficiency in stations while giving capable SIs an opportunity to demonstrate leadership and field competence.

Strict Eligibility Criteria

Not every SI will be eligible to lead a station. The order specifies two key conditions:

1. The station must record fewer than 250 criminal cases annually.
2. It should not be located at a district or sub-district headquarters.

Additionally, the officer must have a minimum of five years of active service, ensuring they have sufficient practical experience in law enforcement and investigation to manage a police station effectively.

Reason for the Decision

The DGP’s decision comes in response to a chronic shortage of Inspector-level officers, particularly in rural and low-crime areas. Many senior officers are either stationed at headquarters or deployed in sensitive regions, leaving smaller stations understaffed. The move is seen as a temporary but practical solution to maintain law and order efficiently across the state.