PoliceLeadership – New Manipur Police Chief Outlines Vision for Neutral Law Enforcement
PoliceLeadership – Senior IPS officer Mukesh Singh officially assumed charge as the Director General of Police (DGP) of Manipur on Monday, marking a significant change in the leadership of the state’s police force. Soon after taking charge, he highlighted the need for stronger cooperation among various security agencies and stressed the importance of impartial and professional policing to strengthen public trust.
Focus on Coordination and Public Confidence
Speaking to senior police officers at the Police Headquarters in Mantripukhri, Imphal, Singh outlined his key priorities for the force. He said effective coordination among law-enforcement and security agencies would play a crucial role in maintaining law and order while supporting ongoing efforts to restore stability in the state.
The new police chief also underlined the importance of fair and unbiased policing. According to officials present at the meeting, he encouraged officers to remain committed to constitutional values and ensure that their actions are guided by the rule of law.
First Meeting with Senior Officers
Following a formal welcome ceremony, Singh held an introductory interaction with senior members of the Manipur Police. During the discussion, he reviewed major policing priorities and emphasized professionalism in public service.
Officials said the DGP called upon officers to carry out their duties with neutrality and integrity while working closely with partner agencies. Senior police personnel attended the meeting and exchanged views on the challenges facing the force.
Ceremonial Welcome at Police Headquarters
Before beginning his official responsibilities, Mukesh Singh was received with a guard of honour at the Police Headquarters. The ceremonial reception marked the start of his tenure as the head of the state’s police department.
Singh belongs to the AGMUT cadre of the Indian Police Service and takes over from Rajiv Singh, who recently moved to a new assignment with the central government.
Leadership Transition in a Sensitive Period
The appointment comes at a time when Manipur continues to work toward restoring peace and normalcy after years of unrest. Mukesh Singh most recently served as the Director General of Police in Ladakh, a role he assumed in January 2026.
His transfer to Manipur was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet through an inter-cadre deputation arrangement for a period of three years.
Extensive Experience in Security Operations
A graduate in Civil Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Mukesh Singh joined the IPS in 1996. Throughout his career, he has handled several challenging assignments, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir.
He served as Superintendent of Police in districts such as Reasi, Pulwama, Poonch and Jammu during periods marked by significant security concerns and counter-insurgency operations. His experience in handling sensitive law-and-order situations is expected to be valuable in his new role.
Rajiv Singh Moves to Central Assignment
Outgoing DGP Rajiv Singh, a 1993-batch IPS officer of the Tripura cadre, was recently appointed Secretary (Security) in the Cabinet Secretariat. Before leading the Manipur Police, he held senior positions in both the Tripura Police and the Central Reserve Police Force.
Rajiv Singh took charge of the Manipur Police during one of the most difficult phases in the state’s recent history, following the outbreak of ethnic violence in May 2023.
Continuing Challenges in Manipur
The violence, which began after a Tribal Solidarity March organised in the hill districts, triggered widespread unrest across several parts of the state. The conflict has resulted in the loss of at least 260 lives, displaced thousands of residents and caused major disruptions to everyday life in both valley and hill regions.
As Mukesh Singh begins his tenure, expectations remain focused on strengthening security, improving coordination among agencies and supporting efforts aimed at lasting peace and stability in Manipur.