Centre Approves Premature Repatriation of 1995-Batch IPS Officer with Immediate Effect; His Possible Return to Jammu and Kashmir Triggers Discussion Over Police Leadership
NEW DELHI, NOVEMBER 2: The Government of India has approved the premature repatriation of senior IPS officer Rajesh Kumar (AGMUT: 1995), presently serving as Special Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), to his parent AGMUT cadre with immediate effect.
According to an official order issued by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), on November 2, 2026, the decision was taken following a proposal submitted by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
The order, issued with the approval of the competent authority, formally directs the premature repatriation of Rajesh Kumar to the AGMUT cadre with immediate effect.
The development has generated considerable discussion in administrative and police circles, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, where questions are being raised about the possibility of his return to the Union Territory and a potential change in the leadership of the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
Will Rajesh Kumar Take Over as J&K Police Chief?
The latest development has brought Rajesh Kumar into discussion as a possible contender for an important assignment in Jammu and Kashmir, including the position of Director General of Police (DGP).
A 1995-batch IPS officer of the AGMUT cadre, Rajesh Kumar has previously served in Jammu and Kashmir in significant policing capacities, including as Inspector General of Police (IGP), Jammu. He has also held senior responsibilities in the Central Reserve Police Force.
His administrative experience and previous association with Jammu and Kashmir have added to speculation about his possible future posting in the Union Territory.
However, the premature repatriation order does not contain any reference to his appointment as the DGP of Jammu and Kashmir. It also does not indicate that incumbent DGP Nalin Prabhat is being transferred or relieved of his current assignment.
Nalin Prabhat Continues as DGP
As of November 2, 2026, no official communication has been issued confirming any change in the Jammu and Kashmir Police leadership.
Nalin Prabhat continues to hold the position of Director General of Police, Jammu and Kashmir, and any change in the existing arrangement would require a separate formal order from the competent authority.
What Lies Ahead?
Rajesh Kumar’s repatriation to the AGMUT cadre makes him available for a future assignment within the cadre, which comprises several Union Territories and other administrative units.
Whether the senior IPS officer will be posted to Jammu and Kashmir or considered for the top police position remains a matter of speculation until the Centre takes a formal decision.
For now, the premature repatriation of Rajesh Kumar has sparked fresh discussion over a possible change in the top police leadership of Jammu and Kashmir.
The big question remains: Will Rajesh Kumar return to Jammu and Kashmir and succeed Nalin Prabhat as the next DGP, or will the Centre assign him another responsibility within the AGMUT cadre?
No official confirmation regarding such a leadership change has been issued so far.(KNC)
