Maharashtra DGP: Sadanand Date Appointed as Director General of Police of Maharashtra

The long-standing anticipation regarding the top position of the Maharashtra State Police Force came to an end on Wednesday. The state government has announced the appointment of senior IPS officer Sadanand Date as the new Director General of Police (DGP) of Maharashtra. The current DGP, Rashmi Shukla, is set to retire on January 3, 2026, and Date will take over the reins of the state police force in the coming period.

These officers from the 1990 batch are recognized as the most senior IPS officers in the state after Rashmi Shukla. While on central deputation, they performed excellently as the Director General of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), and they were recently recalled to the Maharashtra cadre. Considering their seniority and experience, the Home Department issued an official appointment order on Wednesday, and Date's tenure in this position will be two years.

Sadanand Date is known as a disciplined, courageous, and unblemished officer. The bravery he displayed while directly confronting terrorists at Cama Hospital during the 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attacks in 2008 is still remembered by people today. Despite being injured, he did not abandon the fight, which is an example of his courage. For this valor, he was honored with the President's 'Police Gallantry Medal'. As the first Police Commissioner of Mira-Bhayandar and Vasai-Virar cities, he also performed remarkable work, giving new dimensions to the security of the cities. Notably, with his field experience, he also contributed to the academic field by obtaining a doctorate in 'Economic Crimes' from Pune University.

Handling law and order in Maharashtra will be a major challenge for Date, especially due to political tensions and the rising crime rate. This appointment of an impartial and dutiful officer is being welcomed by both the police force and the general public. It is expected that this decision by the state government will generate new energy in the police administration and boost crime control.