In a pivotal shift within Uttar Pradesh’s law enforcement framework, Rajeev Krishna has officially taken on the role of the full-time Director General of Police (DGP), marking a significant moment for the state’s police force. This appointment concludes a nearly four-year stretch without a permanent leader, aiming to provide stability and continuity to the largest police force in India.
Rajeev Krishna, a seasoned officer from the 1991 batch of the Indian Police Service (IPS:1991:UP), had been serving as Acting DGP since June 2025. He succeeds Prashant Kumar and becomes the first regular DGP since Mukul Goel was removed from the position in May 2022. Official sources confirm that his appointment follows a formal recommendation from the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), complying with Supreme Court guidelines regarding fixed tenures for state police heads.
The background leading to Krishna’s appointment reflects a turbulent period for Uttar Pradesh’s police hierarchy, which had relied on a succession of acting officers, including D.S. Chauhan, R.K. Vishwakarma, and Vijay Kumar. This instability had provoked criticism regarding its impact on strategic planning and the overall functioning of law enforcement. The selection process intensified earlier this year when eligible senior IPS officers were sent to the UPSC, culminating in a shortlist that included Krishna as the government’s preferred candidate.
According to Supreme Court directives from the Prakash Singh case and UPSC regulations, Krishna is guaranteed a minimum tenure of two years. Born on June 26, 1969, he is set to retire in June 2029, positioning him to offer nearly three years of consistent leadership.
Rajeev Krishna hails from Gautam Buddha Nagar and holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Electronics and Communication. Since his entry into the Indian Police Service in September 1991, he has developed a reputation noteworthy for operational success, technological advancement in policing, and administrative skills. Key highlights of Krishna’s career include:
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Field Commands: He has served in various significant districts, such as Mathura, Agra, and Lucknow, where he conducted major operations against serious crime syndicates.
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Anti-Terrorism Initiatives: As the founding chief of the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terror Squad, Krishna was instrumental in creating the operational framework to deal with rising security threats.
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Training Contributions: He previously led the Uttar Pradesh Police Academy, focusing on developing the capabilities of new officers.
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Border Security Leadership: With experience as Inspector General (Operations) in the Border Security Force (BSF), he played a vital role in overseeing sensitive border operations and implementing advanced security measures.
- Technological Advancements: In his role as Additional Director General of the Agra Zone, he pioneered tech-driven initiatives like Operation Pehchaan, aimed at tracking offenders. He has also advocated for advancements such as the e-Malkhana system and enhanced cybercrime capabilities.
Before becoming the Acting DGP, Krishna served as Director General (Vigilance) and led the Uttar Pradesh Police Recruitment and Promotion Board, notably overseeing the recruitment of over 60,000 constables amidst previous controversies around the process.
His extensive service record includes several prestigious awards, such as the Police Medal for Gallantry and the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service, underscoring his commitment to exemplary public service.
Looking forward, Krishna’s appointment is expected to bring a renewed focus on addressing key challenges like organized crime, cyber threats, and overall law enforcement efficiency. His experience positions him effectively to enhance the professional image of the Uttar Pradesh Police while aligning it with modern expectations for citizen-centric policing.
As he formally assumes this significant role, expectations are high for sustained efforts in transparency and efficiency, especially in recruitment and technological integration. The Uttar Pradesh Police stands poised for a revitalized direction under his stable leadership, prompting a potentially transformative chapter in the state’s law enforcement history. Official confirmation and directives from the Home Department are anticipated to finalize this transition as the focus shifts towards a professionally enhanced police force.
