High Court Dismisses Plea Against DGP Shivadhar Reddy, Directs UPSC Process Within 4 Weeks

The Telangana High Court on Friday dismissed a petition challenging the appointment of Director General of Police (DGP) B. Shivadhar Reddy, giving him major relief. The court refused to stay his appointment and directed the State government to complete the UPSC selection process within four weeks.

The ruling brings temporary clarity to the leadership of the Telangana Police while ensuring that the regular appointment procedure is completed as per law.

Court Orders UPSC Process to Be Completed

While rejecting the plea, the division bench of the Telangana High Court instructed the State government to forward the proposal to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and complete the regular appointment process within four weeks.

The court also directed the government to file a counter-affidavit after submitting the proposal to the UPSC. The matter has been posted for the next hearing on February 5.

Petition Challenged Appointment Under Supreme Court Guidelines

The petition was filed by social activist T. Dhangopal, who argued that the appointment of DGP Shivadhar Reddy violated the Supreme Court guidelines laid down in the Prakash Singh case, which govern the selection and tenure of police chiefs.

However, after hearing arguments from all sides, the court declined to interfere with the appointment at this stage.

Government Clarifies Stand Before the Court

Advocate General A. Sudarshan Reddy, representing the Telangana government, informed the court that a fresh panel of eligible officers was sent to the UPSC on December 31, in compliance with earlier High Court directions.

He pointed out that although the UPSC had earlier returned the list citing delay, its communications did not specifically mention such a delay earlier.

UPSC Submissions and Final Order

Counsel appearing for the UPSC stated that the list was returned as it was sent after a gap of seven years. After considering all submissions, Justice Pulla Karthik dismissed the petition, allowing the current arrangement to continue until the UPSC process is completed.

What This Means Going Forward

The High Court’s order ensures that:

• DGP Shivadhar Reddy continues in office for now
• The UPSC-led regular appointment process must be completed within a fixed timeline
• Legal and constitutional procedures are followed without administrative uncertainty

The decision is being seen as an important development in maintaining stability in the state’s police administration while upholding constitutional norms.

Follow MunsifNews24x7 for latest updates.