Cops under scanner for overstaying at same station for more than 3 years | Bhubaneswar News

According to the policy, transfers are to be carried out annually between April 15 and June 15

Bhubaneswar: Police officers, who have overstayed at their postings in violation of govt’s transfer policy, are now under scrutiny. The Odisha police headquarters has directed all district superintendents of police (SPs) and deputy commissioners of police (DCPs) in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack to ensure that officers serving at the same station for more than three years are transferred in line with state guidelines.“We have advised the heads of police districts and establishments to start identifying such officers and transfer them immediately as per the govt’s policy. They have been advised to complete the process at the earliest,” a senior police officer said.According to a circular issued by the IGP (personnel) S Praveen Kumar on Tuesday, no officer should remain in the same district for more than six consecutive years, and no officer should be posted at one station for more than three years in a row. The directive reiterates the state govt’s policy. “Normally, a government servant may be transferred after serving a period of three years at one place,” the circular said.According to the policy, transfers are to be carried out annually between April 15 and June 15. “District transfer boards must be convened by April 20, with proposals for inter-district transfers submitted to range offices by April 25. Range transfer boards should meet by April 30, while proposals requiring headquarters-level approval must reach the state police headquarters by May 10,” the letter said.The directive emphasizes that SPs and DCPs must conduct a thorough review to identify personnel who have completed their tenure and initiate transfers either within the district or outside it. Officials have been instructed to follow the guidelines strictly, without deviation.A senior headquarters official explained, “The policy is clear, and it is meant to ensure fairness, efficiency, and accountability in policing.” Another officer added, “Transfers are routine, but this time the instructions are strict and uniform across all districts.”Some former police personnel have cautioned that prolonged postings at one location can foster corruption and nepotism. “Many officers use unfair means and political influence to secure plum postings and remain at the same station for years. This practice should end,” said a retired officer, requesting anonymity.