Harish Kumar Gupta Appointed as DGP Andhra Pradesh: Here Are the Details
"Harish Kumar Gupta appointed as the new Andhra Pradesh DGP under full additional charge. Learn about his background, role, and what this leadership change means for law enforcement."
Amaravati: The Andhra Pradesh government has officially appointed Harish Kumar Gupta as the new Director General of Police (DGP) under full additional charge. Gupta, a 1992 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, will take over from D Tirumala Rao, who is set to retire on January 31, 2025.
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Transition in Andhra Pradesh Police Leadership
The appointment comes as part of the government’s latest administrative reshuffle. A formal government order (GO) issued on Wednesday confirmed the decision. The notification states:
“Harish Kumar Gupta IPS (1992), Director General, Vigilance and Enforcement, and Ex-officio Principal Secretary to the Government, is placed in full additional charge of the post of DGP (Head of Police Force) until further orders.”
Who is Harish Kumar Gupta?
Harish Kumar Gupta has had an illustrious career spanning over three decades in various capacities in law enforcement, administration, and security management.
Prior to this appointment, Gupta served as the Director General of Vigilance and Enforcement and played a crucial role in implementing anti-corruption measures and enhancing police vigilance in Andhra Pradesh.
D Tirumala Rao’s New Role at APSRTC
Meanwhile, the outgoing DGP D Tirumala Rao will continue his association with the state administration in a different capacity.
After his superannuation on January 31, Rao has been re-employed as the Vice-Chairman and Managing Director of the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) for a period of one year, beginning February 1, 2025.
This move aligns with the government’s efforts to strengthen the transportation sector while utilizing Rao’s extensive experience in public administration.
Gupta’s Previous Stint as Andhra Pradesh DGP
Interestingly, this is not Gupta’s first time holding the DGP post. During the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) appointed Gupta as the DGP of Andhra Pradesh to ensure smooth law and order management during the electoral process.
However, his tenure was short-lived as the newly elected TDP-led NDA government later reinstated D Tirumala Rao in the role.
What This Means for Law and Order in Andhra Pradesh
The appointment of Harish Kumar Gupta as the DGP of Andhra Pradesh is expected to bring stronger enforcement of law-and-order policies, anti-corruption measures, and a more disciplined police force in the state.
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His previous experience in vigilance and enforcement will likely aid in curbing illegal activities, ensuring public safety, and enhancing policing standards across the state.
Key Takeaways:
- Harish Kumar Gupta, a 1992 batch IPS officer, has been appointed as the DGP of Andhra Pradesh under full additional charge.
- He replaces D Tirumala Rao, who retires on January 31 and will now serve as the Vice-Chairman and MD of APSRTC for one year.
- Gupta has prior experience as the DGP during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, appointed by the Election Commission.
- The new DGP’s tenure is expected to focus on law enforcement, vigilance, and crime prevention in the state.
