Maharashtra Government Elevates Role Amid Security Concerns Post Military Conflict
Mumbai, May 16—In a significant move to strengthen the intelligence apparatus in the financial capital, the Maharashtra government has approved the creation of a sixth Joint Commissioner post in the Mumbai Police to oversee intelligence gathering and monitoring of sleeper cells.This decision comes in the wake of heightened national security concerns following the recent India-Pakistan military conflict.
Special Branch to Get IG-Rank Leadership
Currently, Mumbai Police operates under five joint commissioners handling Law and Order, Crime, Administration, Traffic, and economic offences. With the new post in place, the Special Branch—responsible for intelligence collection and surveillance of potential threats—will now be headed by a Joint Commissioner of the Inspector General (IG) rank.Previously, the Special Branch was led by an Additional Commissioner of Police (Deputy Inspector General rank) who reported to the Joint Commissioner (Law and Order). The restructuring elevates the role to a direct-reporting line to the Commissioner of Police.
Enhanced Coordination and Timely Action
“The Special Branch monitors every development in the city, collects intelligence inputs and keeps track of sleeper cells and sympathisers,” a senior police official stated.The new hierarchy is expected to streamline intelligence flow and expedite decision-making. The Joint Commissioner of Special Branch will not only report directly to the Police Commissioner but also coordinate closely with the Joint Commissioner (Law and Order) to ensure cohesive operations.
Current Vacancy to be Filled Under New Structure
At present, the post of Additional Commissioner of Police (Special Branch) is lying vacant and is temporarily overseen by the Additional Commissioner (Crime). The creation of this new Joint Commissioner role aims to provide focused leadership and fill the existing administrative gap.The development is seen as a proactive step to fortify Mumbai’s security infrastructure and enhance preparedness against internal threats through more effective intelligence management.