Central Armed Police Forces Bill 2026 Passed Amid Controversy

The Rajya Sabha passed the Central Armed Police Forces Bill, 2026, aiming to unify service rules for all CAPFs, enhancing their efficiency and morale. Despite an Opposition walkout, the legislation introduces significant reforms, including specific IPS officer appointments, following a Supreme Court verdict. Debate arose over federal structure impacts and legislative procedure.

The Rajya Sabha approved the Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026, on Wednesday, effectuating a cohesive legal framework for various Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). This legislation, passed by a voice vote, aims to substitute the existing disparate service rule regimes, though it was met with an Opposition walkout in protest.

Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai, addressing the debate, highlighted the bill's intentions to enhance the efficiency and morale of the CAPFs. He asserted that the bill fortifies the country's federal structure and streamlines recruitment and service processes, contrary to Opposition claims.

The bill permits 50% of Indian Police Service officers' posts in CAPFs to be filled by deputation at the inspector general rank. It follows a Supreme Court directive seeking a phased reduction of IPS deputations up to the Senior Administrative Grade. The Opposition, dissatisfied with procedural responses, demanded the bill's review by a select parliamentary committee, leading to a dramatic walkout.

(With inputs from agencies.)