India
CRPF Deputy Inspector General's Suspension Lifted
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has reinstated Deputy Inspector General (DIG) B C Patra, a senior cadre officer. Patra's suspension was revoked by order of the Directorate General, CRPF, on September 15. The President approved the revocation with immediate effect, exercising powers under the Central Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1965. Patra, a 1994-batch CRPF cadre officer, was suspended on June 17. He is currently posted at the CRPF's Tripura Sector headquarters in Agartala. The suspension stemmed from allegations that Patra shared social media content critical of the government during the passage of the Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026. This content allegedly called for a change in the country's lawfully elected government. The Bill, which became an Act in April after presidential assent, permits the continued deputation of Indian Police Service (IPS) officers within the forces. This provision was met with opposition from CAPF cadre officers, who labeled it discriminatory. Retired CAPF officers argued that IPS officers in leadership positions would impede the career progression of CAPF officers. Patra had rejoined the CRPF in April after completing a deputation with the National Security Guard. His suspension drew criticism from some former CAPF officers, with the Alliance of All Ex Paramilitary Forces Welfare Association describing it as hasty and illegal. Ranbir Singh, general secretary of the association, had previously defended Patra, citing his multiple awards and outstanding service. The association also claimed that CAPF personnel and their families were being targeted for opposing the CAPF Act.