Senior IPS Officer Moves to Key Security Role at the Centre
Rajiv Singh, the Director General of Police (DGP) of Manipur, has been appointed as Secretary (Security) in the Cabinet Secretariat in a significant administrative appointment approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).
The appointment was cleared through an official order issued by the Personnel Ministry. Rajiv Singh is a 1993-batch IPS officer of the Tripura cadre and has been serving as the Manipur Police chief since June 1, 2023.
Role Considered Crucial in India’s Security Framework
The Secretary (Security) in the Cabinet Secretariat holds one of the most sensitive positions in India’s security structure. The officer serves as the administrative head overseeing security coordination linked to the Special Protection Group (SPG), the elite force responsible for the security of the Prime Minister and immediate family members residing at the official residence.
Officials said the post had earlier been under the additional charge of R&AW chief Parag Jain before Rajiv Singh’s appointment.
Appointment Comes After Challenging Tenure in Manipur
Rajiv Singh took charge as Manipur DGP during one of the most difficult periods in the state’s recent history. He was appointed shortly after ethnic violence erupted in May 2023, leading to prolonged unrest, displacement, and security challenges across the northeastern state.
During his tenure, police and central security agencies handled multiple law-and-order operations amid tensions between different communities. His appointment to the Centre is being viewed as an important administrative move considering his experience in handling complex internal security situations.
Experienced Officer With Central Force Background
Before becoming the police chief of Manipur, Rajiv Singh had served in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) as Inspector General.
Senior IPS officers with operational and administrative experience are often considered for strategic security roles at the Centre, particularly positions linked to national security coordination and VIP protection systems.
Cabinet Secretariat Holds Strategic Importance
The Cabinet Secretariat functions under the Prime Minister’s Office and plays a key role in coordination among ministries, intelligence agencies, and security institutions.
The Secretary (Security) position is regarded as highly sensitive because it involves coordination related to high-level protection systems, security protocols, and national security administration.
Questions Over Successor in Manipur
Following Rajiv Singh’s transfer, attention has now shifted toward who will become the next police chief of Manipur. Reports indicate that senior officers within the state cadre are being considered for the post as the state continues to deal with security and ethnic tensions.
Administrative experts believe continuity in policing and security coordination will remain critical for the state in the coming months.
Conclusion
The appointment of Rajiv Singh as Secretary (Security) in the Cabinet Secretariat marks a major transition from state policing to a high-level national security role. With extensive experience in internal security and central forces, the senior IPS officer is expected to play an important role in India’s security administration framework.
