CRPF DIG suspended, 20 officers shifted for ‘violating service rules’ as CAPF Act row deepens
Representative image (Image courtesy: Wikimedia)
New Delhi: A suspension of a deputy inspector general and a series of transfers within the Central Reserve Police Force have sparked controversy in India, especially among veteran central armed paramilitary (CAPF) personnel. The CRPF put DIG BC Patra under suspension and reassigned 20 other officers in various postings, which has reignited the debate over the CAPF Act, 2026 within sections of the forces comprising the CAPFs.
Patra, who was posted in Tripura, was placed under suspension on June 17 after the CRPF initiated an inquiry into his alleged social media activities. According to reports, he is accused of circulating audio and video messages, as well as posters and banners, on social media and encrypted messaging platforms that were deemed politically provocative and critical of the government.
A communication issued to the officer on June 10 informed him that an inspector general-rank officer had been tasked with examining his activity on WhatsApp and other encrypted platforms. The inquiry is focused on allegations that content shared through these channels sought to influence public opinion against the government and violated service conduct rules applicable to uniformed personnel.
Media reported that Patra has challenged the suspension, arguing that no disciplinary proceedings were pending or contemplated against him at the time the order was issued, a requirement under the Central Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1965.
The suspension comes against the backdrop of continuing opposition from sections of the CAPFs to the act, which came into force in April. Several cadre officers have criticised the legislation, arguing that it strengthens the position of IPS officers in senior leadership appointments while limiting promotional opportunities for officers who have risen through the CAPF ranks.
Retired paramilitary associations alleged that the transfers and disciplinary action were linked to opposition to the act, claiming officers whose family members participated in protests faced increased scrutiny despite not being involved themselves.
The director general of the CRPF, GP Singh, dismissed allegations of targeted action, saying transfers are routine administrative decisions and that any violation of service rules would be dealt with as per law.
The transfers and suspension have drawn attention within the paramilitary community, where concerns over career progression and representation in senior ranks have persisted since the enactment of the new law.
