Telangana DGP B Shivadhar Reddy pledges to follow the Khaki Book

Hyderabad: “In Telangana, we don’t have a Pink Book, Red Book, or Blue Book – we only know the Khaki Book. We strictly follow the law and move forward accordingly,” declared B Shivadhar Reddy, soon after assuming charge as the Director General of Police (DGP) of Telangana on Wednesday.

He cautioned that fake news, character assassination, and derogatory posts on social media targeting families will not be tolerated and would invite strict legal action.

Focus on Free and Fair Elections

Speaking to the media persons at his office here, the new police chief said the immediate priority of the force is to assist the State Election Commission in ensuring the smooth, peaceful and impartial conduct of local body elections.

“Our responsibility is to act strictly according to law, without bias,” he told reporters after taking charge at the DGP’s office.

Filling vacancies and strengthening special wings

Pointing to existing manpower shortages, Reddy revealed that there are nearly 17,000 vacancies in the police department. He said he would urge the government to expedite recruitment, particularly in specialised departments.

“The focus will be on improving police skills and expertise rather than simply increasing the number of police stations,” he explained. Key special units such as cyber security and EAGLE teams will be strengthened, while emphasis will also be laid on visual policing and surveillance systems.

Rehabilitation for Maoists

With vast experience in handling Left-wing extremism, the DGP stressed that many Maoist leaders themselves now admit that their ideology has failed.

Referring to a recent letter by a Maoist leader expressing readiness to surrender, he assured that those who return to the mainstream would receive all possible support.

“Don’t be afraid. We will stand by those who give up violence and join society,” he assured.

Career Profile

An IPS officer of the 1994 batch, B Shivadhar Reddy was a lawyer before joining the civil services. Born and educated in Hyderabad, he studied law at Osmania University and briefly practiced as an advocate before clearing the UPSC exam.

After bifurcation in 2014, he became the first Chief of Intelligence in Telangana. He later held key assignments in Personnel, Railways and Road Safety before being reinstated as Chief of Intelligence in 2023.

Promoted to Director General rank in 2024, he was appointed Telangana’s top cop last week, succeeding Dr. Jitender who retired.