Shimla, Himachal Pradesh – May 31, 2025 – The Himachal Pradesh Police force today marked a significant moment of transition as Director General of Police (DGP) Dr. Atul Verma concluded his distinguished tenure, retiring from service. His departure ushers in a new chapter for the state’s law enforcement, with Ashok Tiwari, a seasoned 1993-batch IPS officer, assuming the crucial role of DGP on an additional charge basis. This leadership change comes amidst ongoing efforts to strengthen policing and ensure public safety across the picturesque state.
Dr. Atul Verma, a 1991-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has had a notable career marked by various pivotal roles in Himachal Pradesh. Before being appointed as DGP, he served as Director General of the Crime Investigation Department (CID), where he played a crucial role in tackling complex criminal cases and bolstering the state’s intelligence apparatus. His tenure as DGP, though concluding, was characterized by an emphasis on maintaining law and order, curbing illicit activities, and fostering a sense of security among the populace. Verma’s leadership was often viewed as a steady hand navigating the unique challenges posed by a state with diverse geographical terrain and a significant tourism footprint.
On his last day in office, DGP Verma reflected on his service, emphasizing his commitment to upholding the values and integrity of the police department. In a candid interview, he highlighted that his affidavits submitted to the Himachal Pradesh High Court, particularly in a sensitive abetment to suicide case involving a chief engineer of the Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Ltd (HPPCL), were based purely on facts and prepared with utmost honesty. He noted that his affidavits had been accepted by the court on merits on previous occasions as well, indicating his adherence to factual reporting and professional integrity. When questioned about the alleged involvement of his office staff in drug peddling, a serious accusation raised by SP Shimla Sanjeev Gandhi, Verma stated that anyone could investigate any allegation and that the guilty should be punished, emphasizing accountability within the force.
While DGP Verma received a customary farewell at the police headquarters, the absence of an official farewell parade and party was notable, reportedly due to certain reasons that remained unspecified but were acknowledged by senior police officers present at his departure. This subtle deviation from tradition added a layer of intrigue to his retirement. Moments after Verma officially stepped down, a significant order he had issued—the recommendation of the ‘DGP Disc Award-2024’ for 172 police personnel—was promptly withdrawn by the newly appointed officiating DGP, Ashok Tiwari. The reasons for this immediate withdrawal were not explicitly stated but have certainly become a point of discussion within police circles, reflecting the dynamics of leadership transition.
Ashok Tiwari, a 1993-batch IPS officer, takes over the reins as the officiating DGP. Prior to this additional charge, Tiwari served as DGP (Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau), a crucial role in the state’s fight against corruption. His appointment, though interim, signifies the government’s trust in his experience and capabilities to maintain the continuity of police operations and ensure stability within the force. Tiwari’s background in vigilance suggests a continued focus on transparency and integrity within the police department, aligning with the broader governance objectives of the state.
The transition in police leadership comes at a time when Himachal Pradesh is grappling with various law enforcement challenges, including cybercrime, drug trafficking, and maintaining security in its burgeoning tourist areas. The new leadership will be tasked with continuing the fight against these issues while ensuring the welfare and morale of the police force. The legacy of DGP Atul Verma, characterized by his steadfastness and commitment to facts, will undoubtedly serve as a benchmark for his successor as the Himachal Pradesh Police embarks on this new phase of leadership under Ashok Tiwari. The coming months will reveal the strategic direction and priorities of the new DGP as he takes full charge of maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of the citizens of Himachal Pradesh.
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