Bhubaneswar: In a move seen as an attempt to enhance transparency and curb localised influence in policing, the Odisha Police has placed under scrutiny officers who have overstayed at their current postings beyond the stipulated tenures outlined in the state government’s transfer policy.
Fresh instructions have been issued to streamline the annual transfer process of police personnel, reinforcing existing norms while laying down a clear, time-bound roadmap for 2026.
According to a circular issued on Tuesday by IGP (Personnel) S Praveen Kumar, no officer should remain posted at one station for more than three consecutive years or in the same district for more than six consecutive years. The SPs and DCPs in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack have been directed to identify and transfer personnel serving at the same station for more than three years, while emphasising strict adherence without any deviations.
Similarly, constables and havildars should not serve more than three years at a single police station (with an exception of up to seven years in marine police stations). The three-year limit also applies to sub-inspectors and assistant sub-inspectors.
Detailed Tenure Rules and Timelines Set for 2026
>> The directive specifies a structured annual transfer window between April 15 and June 15.
>> Key deadlines include: District Transfer Boards to be convened by April 20.
>> Proposals for inter-district transfers to be submitted to range offices by April 25.
>> Range Transfer Boards to meet by April 30.
>> Proposals requiring headquarters approval to reach the state police headquarters by May 10.
