CM Revanth Flags IPS Shortage, Security Concerns in Meeting with Amit Shah

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on Wednesday, pressing the Centre to strengthen the state’s Indian Police Service (IPS) cadre in view of its expanding administrative and security responsibilities . The meeting covered a range of issues including Maoist surrenders , policing capacity and development needs in backward regions of the state.

During the interaction, the Chief Minister briefed Shah on the progress made by Telangana Police in tackling Left-Wing Extremism . According to the state government, 591 Maoists have surrendered over the past two years and returned to mainstream society. Reddy said the government is implementing structured rehabilitation programmes that offer financial assistance, livelihood support and other incentives to help former insurgents rebuild their lives. Officials believe these initiatives, along with sustained policing and intelligence efforts, have played a key role in encouraging insurgents to abandon violence.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the need to strengthen senior police leadership in the state. At present, Telangana has a sanctioned IPS cadre strength of 151 posts , but around 130 officers are currently in position , leaving several vacancies at crucial levels of administration. The Chief Minister noted that the shortage places additional pressure on existing officers, particularly as the state’s policing responsibilities continue to expand.

He pointed out that the first IPS cadre review after Telangana’s formation was conducted in 2016 , while the next review, scheduled for 2021 , was delayed and carried out only in 2025 . Even then, the increase in posts was limited. Reddy therefore urged the Union government to ensure that the next cadre review in 2026 is conducted on schedule to address the growing gap in senior police leadership.

Highlighting emerging challenges, the Chief Minister said Telangana is increasingly facing cybercrime, drug trafficking and financial fraud , which require specialised investigation and stronger institutional capacity. Expanding the IPS cadre, he said, would help improve strategic policing and coordination across departments. He also informed the Union Home Minister about the reorganisation of Hyderabad, Cyberabad and Malkajgiri Police Commissionerates , along with plans to establish a Future City Commissionerate to oversee law enforcement in upcoming urban clusters around Hyderabad. With the city witnessing rapid population growth and urban expansion, these changes have significantly increased policing demands.

In addition, the Chief Minister sought financial support from the Centre for development works in backward regions , stressing that balanced growth is essential for long-term stability and security in the state.