Former DGP Gautam Sawang appointed APPSC chairman

Amaravati: After transferring him unceremoniously, the state government has appointed former DGP Gautam Sawang as chairman of Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC). The state government has issued orders to this effect. He will remain in service for 5 years.

A 1986 IPS officer, Sawang is scheduled to retire in July 2023. Gautam Sawang was posted as the DGP soon after the YSRCP government assumed power in May 2019. Sources said failure to control the crowd during the `Chalo Vijayawada' program was one of the reasons for the transfer of Sawang. At least one lakh people defied the ban to attend the programme. The government blamed the police for the failure to control the crowd.

DG (Intelligence), Kasireddy VRN Reddy has been appointed as the new DGP. He has been given full charge as the Head of Police Force until further orders.

Meanwhile, a senior IPS officer told NewsMeter that, the state might witness another wave of transfers once the bifurcation of districts is completed. "Not too long ago, 20 non-cadet officers were inducted into IPS. And another 10 officers who were recently promoted are awaiting postings. Also, a few DCP posts have to be filed up. Once the new districts come up, there will be a requirement for 18 IPS units," a top IPS officer requesting anonymity told NewsMeter.

He said the buzz going around is that the SPs and Collectors of the undivided districts like Srikakulam, Vijayagaram, West Godavari, Prakasam, and Nellore will also be transferred. The newly promoted officials will take charge for the existing 13 districts, he said.

There is also a buzz that the new DGP will build his own team of confidants and post them on crucial positions. "DGP, Chief Minister's office, DG Intelligence, and Chief Secretary decide about transfers. It is pertinent to note that even if DGP suggests new names for certain postings, the ultimate decision lies with CMO" the officer asserted.