West Bengal DGP Appointment: CAT Sets January Deadline Amidst Legal Scrutiny

• The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) has set a timeline for the appointment of West Bengal's next DGP, with a decision expected by January end.
• The West Bengal government must submit eligible officers' panel to UPSC by January 23, UPSC to meet by January 28, and recommend by January 29.
• The issue arose from a petition by IPS officer Rajesh Kumar, alleging denial of fair consideration for the DGP post.
• UPSC previously returned the state's proposal due to significant delays and non-compliance with Supreme Court directives on timely submissions.
• Acting DGP Rajeev Kumar, along with Ranvir Kumar and Rajesh Kumar, is set to retire on January 31, adding urgency to the appointment.

Why It Matters: CAT intervenes to expedite West Bengal DGP appointment, setting strict deadlines amidst past delays and legal challenges.