Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to introduce an “umbrella law” governing the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) in the Rajya Sabha on Monday, seeking to streamline recruitment, deputation and service conditions across the forces.
The proposed legislation, titled the Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026, aims to bring uniformity in rules that are currently governed by separate laws for each force, including the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
A key feature of the Bill is the proposed allocation of senior posts to officers from the Indian Police Service (IPS) on deputation. It provides that 50 per cent of Inspector General (IG)-level posts in CAPFs will be filled through deputation.
Additionally, a minimum of 67 per cent of Additional Director General (ADG)-level posts will be reserved for deputation, while all posts at the ranks of Special Director General and Director General will be filled exclusively through deputation, according to the proposal.
The proposed law comes in the backdrop of a Supreme Court of India ruling last year that directed the Centre to reduce IPS deputation in CAPFs and undertake a cadre review within a stipulated timeframe.
Also read: 2,400 CAPF companies to guard Bengal elections
The court had flagged concerns over stagnation among cadre officers due to lateral entry at senior levels, noting that it could adversely impact morale and career progression within the forces.
According to the Bill’s objectives, the absence of a unified legal framework has led to fragmented regulations and multiple litigations on service-related matters, creating administrative and operational challenges.
The proposed legislation seeks to address these issues by providing legislative clarity while balancing operational needs and federal considerations.
It also underscores the role of IPS officers as an integral part of CAPFs, arguing that their deputation helps maintain coordination between the Centre and states, especially in matters of internal security and border management.
A group of retired CAPF officers has moved the Supreme Court alleging non-compliance with earlier court directions on cadre reforms. They have expressed concerns that the proposed law could impact morale and leadership opportunities within the forces.
The government, however, maintains that the Bill is necessary to harmonise judicial directives with administrative requirements and ensure the effective functioning of forces tasked with safeguarding national security.
Follow us
