Munish Sood
Shimla
In a significant administrative reshuffle aimed at strengthening policing and internal capacity-building, the Himachal Pradesh government has ordered the transfer and posting of four senior IPS officers, with a notable focus on seasoned officer IG Zahoor Zaidi, whose career has been closely watched due to his prolonged involvement in the high-profile Gudiya r*ape and m*urder case.
Zahoor Zaidi Moved to Police Training and Research Wing
Inspector General (IG) Zahoor Zaidi has been posted to the Police Training and Research Wing at the Police Academy in Shimla. The move is being seen as a strategic deployment, given Zaidi’s extensive investigative experience and deep institutional knowledge.
Zaidi had remained under intense scrutiny and controversy for nearly five years in connection with the 2017 Gudiya rape and murder case in Shimla — a case that had shaken public confidence and triggered widespread protests across the state. The investigation saw multiple twists, including allegations of custodial death, mishandling of evidence, and eventually a CBI probe. Zaidi’s role during the period remained a focal point of public and legal discourse, making his current posting particularly significant.
Officials indicate that his experience could now be channelled into training young officers, especially in areas of criminal investigation, crisis handling, and procedural accountability.
Key Changes in Law & Order and Traffic Wings
In another major change, DIG Gurdev Chand Sharma has been shifted from the Traffic, Tourist and Railway wing and entrusted with the crucial responsibility of Law and Order. The move comes at a time when the state is gearing up for the tourist season and requires robust internal security management.
Replacing him, DIG Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi has been posted to head the Traffic, Tourist and Railway division. His appointment is expected to streamline traffic management and enhance tourist safety, especially in high-footfall districts.
Command Shift in IRB Battalion
Additionally, IPS officer Amit Yadav has been appointed as the Commandant of the 2nd Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) at Sakoh in Kangra district. The posting is considered vital for strengthening the operational readiness of reserve forces in the region.
Administrative Intent
The reshuffle reflects the state government’s attempt to recalibrate its policing strategy by aligning experienced officers with roles that demand both expertise and public trust. While routine on the surface, the inclusion of officers linked with past high-profile cases — particularly Zahoor Zaidi — adds a layer of political and administrative significance to the changes.
