Sadanand Date Appointed as New Maharashtra Police Chief

Maharashtra has a new police chief with the appointment of a senior and experienced officer to lead the state police force. The move follows established judicial guidelines to ensure stability and independence in police leadership. The new Director General of Police brings with him extensive experience in counter-terrorism, urban policing, and central investigation roles.

Why in the News?

Sadanand Vasant Date has taken charge as the Director General of Police (DGP), Maharashtra. He succeeds Rashmi Shukla, the state’s first woman police chief.

About the New Maharashtra DGP

Dr Sadanand Date is a 1990 batch IPS officer with a long career in policing and internal security. Despite being due for retirement in December 2026, he will serve a full two year tenure as DGP. This is in accordance with Supreme Court directives, which mandate a minimum fixed tenure for state police chiefs to ensure continuity and prevent undue political pressure.

Professional Experience and Key Roles

Before his appointment as DGP, Date served as the chief of the National Investigation Agency. He has also headed the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and played a key role in handling sensitive terror-related investigations. In Mumbai, he served as Joint Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) and later as Joint Commissioner in the Crime Branch, gaining deep operational experience.

Role in Urban Policing and Security

Date was the first Police Commissioner of the newly created Mira Bhayandar–Vasai Virar (MBVV) Police Commissionerate, formed in 2020. He is known for his clean image and professional approach. More recently, he oversaw investigations into the Delhi car blast case while serving at the NIA, further strengthening his credentials as a security-focused administrator.

DGP Tenure and Supreme Court Guidelines

The Supreme Court of India has directed that state DGPs must be appointed for a minimum fixed tenure of two years. This reform aims to improve police autonomy, professionalism, and accountability by insulating top police leadership from frequent transfers. The policy applies even if the officer is close to retirement, as seen in the appointments of both Rashmi Shukla and Sadanand Date.

Key Summary At Glance

Question

Q. The Supreme Court has mandated a minimum fixed tenure of how many years for State DGPs?

A. 1 year
B. 18 months
C. 2 years
D. 3 years