Last Updated:March 11, 2026, 11:44 IST

The discussions come in the backdrop of a recent ruling that CAPF Group ‘A’ officers constitute Organised Group ‘A’ Services for all purposes, not merely financial upgradations

The Union Cabinet is learnt to have discussed the proposed Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) General Administration and Regulation Bill, 2026, a move that could determine the number of positions reserved for Indian Police Service (IPS) officers in CAPFs.

The discussions come in the backdrop of a recent Supreme Court ruling which held that CAPF Group ‘A’ officers constitute Organised Group ‘A’ Services (OGAS) for all purposes, and not merely for financial upgradations. The judgment mandates a phased reduction of IPS deputation in CAPFs up to the rank of Inspector General within two years, a step that could impact nearly 13,000 officers.

The Union government told the Supreme Court that it is actively examining the implications of the judgment and considering possible statutory and regulatory measures to implement the directions.

“The respondents are actively examining the matter and are also considering the requirement of appropriate statutory and regulatory intervention, wherever necessary, in accordance with law," the government submitted in its application before the court.

It further informed the court that the issue has wide-ranging administrative implications and therefore requires careful consideration, seeking 18-20 months’ time from the court to complete the process.

“The matter involves policy, financial and structural implications having long-term administrative consequences, and therefore requires careful and due consideration at each stage," the government said.

The Centre also told the court that the cadre review exercise for Group ‘A’ officers of the Central Armed Police Forces has already been initiated.

Officials said the government has already initiated a cadre review exercise for CAPF Group ‘A’ officers, which involves consultations with the forces, examination by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) and the Department of Expenditure, followed by recommendations of the Cadre Review Committee and final approvals at the ministerial and Cabinet levels.

The proposed legislative and administrative measures are expected to shape the future cadre structure and leadership framework of India’s central armed police forces while keeping the future of cadre officers undecided.

A cadre officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that any delay in implementing the Supreme Court’s order could lead to an increase in resignations within the forces.

“This has been a long battle for cadre officers, who have been facing significant attrition as many remain stuck in the same rank even after serving for 15 years," the officer said. “Despite the court’s order, the government appears to be exploring a different route to accommodate officers for whom CAPFs are often treated as a parking posting. The move to introduce a new bill could further increase the number of resignations in the forces," a CRPF officer added.

News india CAPF Administration Bill In The Pipeline After Supreme Court Ruling On Cadre Structure

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