The Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026 is likely to be tabled in the Lok Sabha on March 23, proposing a structured framework for IPS deputation across senior ranks in CAPFs. The bill seeks to bring an umbrella law governing recruitment, promotion and service conditions across all five forces.
The move comes months after a Supreme Court judgment in May 2025 directed the government to “progressively reduce” IPS deputation in CAPFs, acknowledging long-standing concerns of cadre officers over career block.
IPS deputation structure and concerns
The draft bill formalises the presence of IPS officers at main leadership levels. It mandates that 67% of Additional Director General (ADG) posts will be filled by IPS officers on deputation, 50% at the Inspector General (IG) level, and 100% at the ranks of Special Director General (SDG) and Director General (DG).
The government has justified this structure, stating that IPS officers are essential for coordination between the Centre and states. It said CAPFs operate in close coordination with state authorities on national security and internal security matters, making IPS involvement crucial.
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“Central Armed Police Forces perform functions of national security in close coordination with State authorities; and in the interest of maintaining Centre-State relationship and ensuring close coordination between the Union and the States, the Indian Police Service Officers are necessary for effective functioning of these forces,” the statement of object and reasons of the draft bill said.
The bill also states that its rules will override any conflicting provisions in existing rules or orders.
However, the proposal has drawn strong objections from CAPF associations and retired officers. They argue that it goes against the Supreme Court’s direction and further limits career growth for cadre officers.
Members of the Alliance of All Ex Paramilitary Forces Welfare Association have demanded that the bill be referred to the Parliamentary Committee on Home Affairs for wider consultation in a press conference.
HR Singh, former ADG of CRPF, said, “If the government has decided to introduce a bill to circumvent the Supreme Court judgment, that bill should at least be sent to the Parliamentary Committee. Feedback should be taken from all stakeholders.”
Former officers also highlighted disparities in promotions. In several CAPFs, senior posts such as ADG are largely occupied by IPS officers, while cadre officers remain at lower ranks despite longer service. All five CAPFs—CRPF, BSF, ITBP, SSB and CISF—are currently headed by IPS officers.
Opposition leaders have also raised concerns in Parliament, urging the government to implement the Supreme Court’s directions, including cadre review and reduction of IPS deputation.
The government, however, maintains that an umbrella law is needed to streamline regulations, reduce litigation and ensure clarity in service rules while maintaining operational efficiency and federal coordination.
The bill is expected to trigger further debate in Parliament, as it seeks to balance administrative needs with judicial directions and the interests of CAPF cadre officers.
