RAIPUR: In a highly anticipated move, Arun Dev Gautam, a 1992-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has been appointed as the new Director General of Police (DGP) for Chhattisgarh, effective Tuesday. He succeeds Ashok Juneja, a 1989-batch IPS officer, who has retired after serving two consecutive extensions.
Gautam’s appointment comes after a meticulous selection process overseen by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The commission shortlisted candidates based on seniority, service records, and operational experience, and the Chhattisgarh government forwarded the final list to ensure a transparent, merit-based process in line with established guidelines.
With over three decades of experience in high-stakes policing, Gautam brings a wealth of expertise in intelligence operations, anti-Naxal strategies, and security management. Hailing from Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Gautam initially served in Madhya Pradesh before choosing to stay in Chhattisgarh following its creation in 2000. During his tenure, he served as the superintendent of police (SP) in six conflict-affected districts, including Rajnandgaon, Bilaspur, Raigarh, Jashpur, Surguja, and Koriya. His work in these districts focused on crime control, intelligence-driven operations, and enhancing infrastructure to strengthen law enforcement.A decorated officer, Gautam’s career is marked by pivotal district and state-level leadership roles. His tenure in Rajnandgaon was particularly notable following a devastating Maoist ambush in 2009 that claimed the lives of 29 police personnel, including the then-SP. His leadership in counter-insurgency operations during this crisis highlighted his exceptional crisis management skills.
Gautam has received numerous national and international accolades for his service. Notably, he was awarded the United Nations Medal for his role in peacekeeping operations in Kosovo in 2002. At home, he earned the Indian Police Medal for Meritorious Service in 2010 and the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service in 2018, recognizing his outstanding contributions to public safety.
Beyond his district-level assignments, Gautam has held significant roles in intelligence, counter-insurgency, and high-level security administration. He also played a crucial role as Inspector General (IG) of the Bastar Range, overseeing critical anti-Naxal operations following the 2013 Jhiram Ghati Maoist attack.
In his new role, Gautam will not only lead the state’s police force but also take charge as Director General of Home Guards and Civil Defence. Additionally, he will hold the position of Director General of Public Prosecution, underlining his broad administrative capabilities in law enforcement, civil defence, and legal prosecution.
