Police Commission Responds to IGP Power Debate

COLOMBO (News 1st); The National Police Commission has clarified that no final decision has been made to delegate its powers to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) regarding appointments and transfers of senior officers.

Responding to inquiries from News 1st, the Commission stated:

“Currently, appointments, promotions, removals, and transfers from Station Masters up to Senior Deputy Inspectors General are handled by the National Police Commission. The IGP is responsible for ranks from Constable up to Police Inspector.”

The Commission noted that the IGP had requested authority over certain appointments and transfers involving Sub-Inspectors, Inspectors, and Chief Inspectors serving as OICs.

“A procedure has been outlined for such requests. Any action outside this process can be appealed to the Commission,” the statement added.

Under the Constitution, these powers can be delegated to the IGP, but if exercised arbitrarily, the Commission can revoke them through a Gazette notification.

This clarification comes amid growing calls in Parliament for greater police independence and concerns over political interference in law enforcement.