Shyam Bhagat Negi Poised to Become Himachal Pradesh's Next DGP

Shyam Bhagat Negi, a 1990-batch IPS officer, is on the verge of being appointed as the next Director General of Police in Himachal Pradesh. With the Centre's approval for his return from central duties, he stands as the frontrunner for the position. Currently serving as Special Secretary in the Cabinet Secretariat, Negi's seniority and experience make him a strong candidate. If appointed, he would have an eight-month tenure before retirement. The state government is expected to make an official announcement soon, following months of speculation regarding his potential elevation to this key role in state law enforcement.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 16, 2025, 13:39 IST

Shyam Bhagat Negi's Appointment as DGP

Shimla: The path seems clear for Shyam Bhagat Negi, a 1990-batch IPS officer, to take over as the Director General of Police (DGP) in Himachal Pradesh. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has sanctioned his return to his home cadre from central duties, significantly enhancing his chances of being appointed as the state's chief police officer.

Currently, Negi serves as the Special Secretary in the Cabinet Secretariat at the national level. Originating from Kinnaur district, he has long been regarded as a leading candidate for the DGP position. His seniority places him at the top of the DGP panel finalized by the government in May, which also includes Ashok Tiwari (1993 batch, currently acting DGP) and Rakesh Agrawal (1994 batch, on central deputation from Haryana).

If appointed, Negi, who is set to retire on March 31, 2026, would have a tenure of approximately eight months. This stability is likely to prompt the state government to make an official announcement soon.

At present, Ashok Tiwari is serving as the acting DGP following the unexpected retirement of Atul Verma, who was placed on forced leave shortly before his retirement due to the Chief Engineer Vimal Negi case. Verma did not receive an official farewell, leading to Tiwari's interim appointment.

Other potential candidates include Anurag Garg, another 1990-batch IPS officer currently leading the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), and Rakesh Agrawal, who has shown interest in returning to Himachal Pradesh from his central role. Ritvik Rudra, a fellow 1994-batch officer, remains on central deputation.

Speculation regarding Negi's return and potential promotion to the state's police chief has been ongoing for months. With the Centre now approving his move back, this speculation may soon be confirmed officially, according to sources.