Delhi Police Chief Replaced in Abrupt Transition as Anurag Kumar Takes Over

On Friday morning, Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golchha was attending a Van Mahotsav plantation drive at the Ridge with Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa and senior officers. Shortly after 10:40 am, a government order was issued appointing 1994-batch IPS officer Anurag Kumar as the new Commissioner of Delhi Police, marking an abrupt end to Golchha’s tenure.

The transition came without any advance notice, unlike previous changes of command at the Delhi Police headquarters. Golchha returned to the Police Headquarters on Jai Singh Road, wrapped up official work on the 17th floor, and awaited the next developments.

Police officers at the headquarters stated that ordinarily they are informed in advance about the incoming commissioner's arrival, with schedules circulated, ceremonial arrangements made, and the police band summoned from the New Police Lines. The media is also informed. On Friday, none of this occurred. The entire headquarters was caught off guard when Kumar arrived around noon.

Without prior intimation, the ceremonial police band had not arrived, so there was no Guard of Honour when Kumar entered the building. Senior officers hurried downstairs as word spread, assembled quickly, and received him before he proceeded to the 17th floor. There, inside the commissioner’s office, Kumar met Golchha. In a brief ceremony, Golchha formally handed over the ceremonial baton, symbolising the transfer of command.

Only after the formal assumption of charge was Kumar accorded the traditional Guard of Honour that typically accompanies the assumption of office. The two officers exchanged a few words, and Kumar personally escorted Golchha to the ground floor. Outside, Golchha received his farewell Guard of Honour, returned the salute, shook hands with senior officers, and walked out of the Police Headquarters.