The Supreme Court of India has ruled that officers of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) are to be treated as part of the Organised Group-A Services (OGAS). This status entitles them to all associated benefits, including Non-Functional Financial Upgradation (NFFU), and applies to all cadre-related matters such as cadre review.
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In its judgment, the Court stated:
“Now that the Central Government has accepted that CAPFs are included in OGAS, the natural consequences should follow. Eligible officers belonging to the CAPFs have already been granted NFFU following the decision of this Court in Harananda. DoPT OM dated 12.07.2019 makes it abundantly clear that the CAPFs have been treated as OGAS for cadre issues and all other related matters. In other words, CAPFs are OGAS for all purposes.
This decision addresses longstanding concerns among CAPF officers regarding career stagnation. Many officers faced limited promotion opportunities due to a significant number of senior positions being occupied by Indian Police Service (IPS) officers on deputation. The Court's ruling aims to alleviate these issues by ensuring that CAPF officers receive appropriate recognition and advancement opportunities within their own services.
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Furthermore, the Supreme Court suggested a gradual reduction in the deputation of IPS officers to CAPFs. This move is intended to strengthen the internal cadre of the CAPFs and promote leadership from within the forces. However, the Court clarified that the existing rights of IPS officers for deputation are not affected by this decision.
The Court emphasized:
“It is observed that while deciding the appeals this court has made no observations with respect to the right of IPS officers for deputation, in terms of the recruitment rules, if any, as the same was not the controversy and/or issue before this court and the decision of this court shall be construed with respect to grant of Organised Group ‘A’ Central Services only.
This clarification ensures that while the CAPFs are empowered to develop their own leadership, the established procedures for IPS officer deputations remain intact.
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The Supreme Court's decision marks a significant step towards enhancing the professional growth and recognition of CAPF officers. By affirming their status as Organised Group-A Services and advocating for a balanced approach to IPS deputations, the Court seeks to promote a more equitable and efficient structure within India's central armed police forces.
Case no. – Civil Appeal No. 13104 of 2024
Case Title – Sanjay Prakash & Ors. v. Union of India & Ors. and connected matters
