CRPF Cadre Review Committee Faces Criticism Over Officer Inclusion

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has sparked controversy by including two Group B officers in a Cadre Review Committee designed to evaluate the cadre review of Gazetted Group A executive officers. This decision, which follows directives from the Union Home Ministry in line with a Supreme Court ruling applicable to all Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), has met with criticism from within the force.

The review aims to tackle issues of stagnation and enhance both operational and administrative efficiency across ranks. Chaired by Sandeep Khirwar, the additional director general (Headquarters), the committee is responsible for assessing post requirements and functional justifications according to guidelines set by the Department of Personnel and Training.

On February 20, 2024, the CRPF issued an instruction mandating members to attend an upcoming meeting in person. In a prior memorandum dated February 4, it was noted that inspectors Saneesh Kumar and Amandeep Singh would join the committee since Group B cadre officers would also be impacted by the review. They were instructed to prepare data and insights related to promotion and stagnation within their ranks.

Initially, a memorandum issued on January 9 indicated that the review would focus exclusively on Group A executive officers. The subsequent inclusion of subordinate officers has raised concerns among some personnel, who described the move as unprecedented and potentially disruptive to the established command structure.

Critics highlight the significant differences in recruitment criteria and qualifications between Group A and Group B ranks. Some members of the CRPF argue that involving subordinate officers in a review concerning their superiors could lead to structural and hierarchical complications.

A senior officer from the Department of Personnel and Training emphasized that the review is being conducted following Supreme Court directives aimed at addressing stagnation among Group A officers across CAPFs. The official noted that enhancing vertical mobility at the Group A level could ultimately benefit subordinate ranks and reiterated that the court’s guidance was specifically directed at cadre officers.

In a communication dated February 3, 2024, the Union Home Ministry reiterated the urgency of submitting comprehensive cadre review proposals for Group A cadres, emphasizing that the matter has attracted court attention and warrants priority action. The ongoing discussions highlight a significant moment for the CRPF as it navigates complex personnel and administrative challenges while adhering to legal obligations.