In a sharp critique of Uttar Pradesh?s new police chief appointment rules, former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav took a swipe at CM Yogi Adityanath, questioning the longevity of the government?s recent policy changes. This comes after the UP cabinet approved the Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh Selection and Appointment Rules 2024, establishing a new framework for appointing the state?s Director General of Police (DGP) and ensuring a minimum two-year tenure for the appointed officer.

In response, Yadav took to social media, posting on X (formerly Twitter), ?I have heard that arrangements are being made to grant a senior official a permanent position and extend their tenure by two years. The question is, will those making this arrangement themselves be around for two years? Could this be an attempt to take control from Delhi into their own hands?" He ended his post with the line, ?Delhi vs Lucknow 2.0,? alluding to tensions between the state and central governments.

New DGP Appointment Rules Explained

The new policy introduces a nomination committee led by a retired High Court judge tasked with appointing the DGP. This committee includes the Chief Secretary, a Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) representative, the Chairman of the UP Public Service Commission or their nominee, the Additional Chief Secretary (Home), and a retired DGP with prior experience, as reported by Amar Ujala. The setup is designed to ensure transparency and independence in selecting a police chief, aiming to reduce political or executive interference and focus on professional qualifications and service records.

By requiring a two-year minimum tenure for the DGP, the policy intends to promote stability within the police force, allowing the DGP time to implement and oversee long-term initiatives. However, this change has also fueled speculation about the government?s motivations, with critics suggesting it could be an attempt to consolidate control and reduce external influence, including that from central agencies.

A Tense Political Climate: ?Delhi vs Lucknow 2.0?

Yadav?s remark, ?Delhi vs Lucknow 2.0,? points to a perceived power struggle between state and central authorities. It hints that the new rules may be part of a broader strategy by CM Adityanath?s administration to assert greater autonomy in UP?s policing and governance.

This latest exchange reflects the ongoing political tension between Akhilesh Yadav?s Samajwadi Party and the ruling BJP in Uttar Pradesh. With both parties preparing for the next state elections, Yadav?s jibe underscores his party's criticisms of what it perceives as the BJP's attempts to centralize power in state matters.

Whether this move signals a shift in UP?s political dynamics or merely serves as an administrative reform, it?s evident that the new DGP appointment rules have sparked intense debate.