LV Antony Dev Kumar Appointed Uttar Pradesh DGP After Four-Year Gap

Lucknow, March 2026 : In a significant administrative move, the Uttar Pradesh government has appointed LV Antony Dev Kumar as the new Director General of Police (DGP), ending a four-year period during which the state functioned under acting police chiefs. The decision is expected to bring stability and continuity to the leadership of one of India’s largest police forces.

A 1994-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, Dev Kumar hails from Tamil Nadu and brings with him decades of experience in policing and security administration. Known for his professional competence, he has held several key positions throughout his career, contributing to both state and central agencies.

Dev Kumar’s academic background further strengthens his profile, with a Master’s degree in Political Science and History. His blend of academic insight and field experience is seen as an asset in handling the complex law-and-order challenges in a populous and diverse state like Uttar Pradesh.

Over the years, he has served in important roles, including assignments with the Special Security Force (SSF) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). These stints have provided him with exposure to high-level security operations and investigative work, enhancing his reputation as a seasoned and capable officer.

The appointment of a full-time DGP comes after a prolonged gap since 2022, when the state last had a permanent police chief. Since then, the administration had been relying on acting DGPs, a situation that often led to short-term decision-making and limited continuity in policy implementation.

Officials believe that appointing a permanent DGP will help streamline decision-making processes, strengthen command structures, and improve coordination across various wings of the police department. It is also expected to boost morale within the force by providing clear and stable leadership.

The move reflects the government’s intent to reinforce law enforcement mechanisms and ensure better public safety. With Dev Kumar at the helm, the Uttar Pradesh Police is expected to adopt a more structured and strategic approach to tackling crime and maintaining order across the state.