Himachal’s first DGP IB Negi passes away, played key role in establishing Delhi Police Commissionerate

SHIMLA: Himachal Pradesh has lost a towering figure in its policing history with the demise of IB Negi, the state’s first Director General of Police (DGP).

Born on October 31, 1932, in Sangla village of Kinnaur district, IB Negi’s remarkable career in the Indian Police Service (IPS) left an indelible mark in the field of law enforcement in the country.

A 1958-batch IPS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, IB Negi held several key positions across multiple states. His early career saw him serve as ADC to the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, as well as Superintendent of Police (SP) in Nainital and Lakhimpur Kheri.

Served as CID SP in Lucknow

IB Negi later took on the role of SP, CID, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, demonstrating his expertise in intelligence and criminal investigation.
His distinguished service extended to India’s paramilitary forces where he held critical roles in the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), serving in strategic regions such as NEFA and Arunachal Pradesh.
His tenure as the DIG, CISF, in Bokaro further showcased his administrative and operational acumen. In 1975, IB Negi underwent advanced training at the prestigious National Defence College (NDC), further honing his leadership skills.

Appointed Himachal Pradesh Police head in 1986

He played a key role in the establishment of the Delhi Police Commissionerate in 1978, a milestone in modern Indian policing. His experience also included serving as Deputy Director at the CRPF Academy, Mount Abu, and as Director (DO) at SSB Shimla.

In 1986, Negi was appointed as the head of Himachal Pradesh Police, becoming the first-ever DGP of the state. He held this esteemed position until his superannuation in 1990, laying the foundation for a strong and efficient police force in the region.

Under his leadership, the state police force witnessed significant advancements in crime prevention and law enforcement strategies.

IB Negi’s service was recognized at the highest level, earning him the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service (PPMDS) and the Police Medal for Meritorious Service (PMS). In 1988, he led the Indian delegation to Southeast Asia for the prestigious Interpol Conference, further cementing his legacy in international policing.

Chief Minister Sukhu expresses grief

Expressing deep sorrow over his passing, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu paid tribute to Shri Negi’s outstanding service.

“IB Negi was an exceptional police officer whose contributions to the police force will always be remembered. His leadership and dedication to duty set a benchmark for law enforcement in Himachal Pradesh,” the Chief Minister stated.

The Himachal Pradesh Police Department also extended its heartfelt condolences, remembering him as a guiding force who played a pivotal role in shaping the modern policing structure of the state.

Sunil Chadha