Border dists work without full-time SPs as govt delays decision on IPS transfers

Jaipur: The state govt Thursday assigned the responsibilities of Hanumangarh and Jhunjhunu SPs to their respective additional SPs after the original incumbents, IPS officers posted as SPs, Arshad Ali and Sharad Choudhary, respectively, were removed and placed under awaiting posting orders. The vacant SP position in Hanumangarh, situated near the Pakistan border during current tensions, has led to concerns within the police dept. The situation also suggests potential delays in the anticipated IPS transfer list. At least six districts, including Sriganganagar, continue to have DIGs working as SPs despite their promotions, even as the state govt has not released a new transfer list. In Hanumangarh, the absence of a full-time SP comes at a sensitive time. The district's proximity to the international border places it under regular strategic scrutiny, and senior police officials acknowledge that a permanent appointment would ensure stronger operational leadership.Six officers were promoted to DIG rank on Dec 31 but continued to serve as SPs. These officers include Anand Sharma (Jaipur Rural), Gaurav Yadav (Sriganganagar), Bhushan Bhuvan Yadav (Sikar), Sharad Choudhary (Jhunjhunu), Rajan Dushyant (Kotputli Behror), and Arshad Ali (Hanumangarh). With the SPs of Hanumangarh and Jhunjhunu now under APO, the gap in leadership is being managed through temporary arrangements.