Odisha Police / Vinaytosh Mishra Gets Additional Charge as Odisha DGP After Khurania’s Retirement

Bhubaneswar, Aug 14: With the retirement of Odisha’s Director General of Police (DGP) Y.B. Khurania on August 16, the State government has entrusted Vinaytosh Mishra, DGP, CID, Crime Branch, with the additional charge of DGP (Head of Police Force), officials said on Friday.

The decision, approved by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, will take effect from August 16 until further orders, they added.

Khurania, who had been serving as the state’s police chief, will superannuate after completing his tenure. His departure marks the end of a crucial phase in Odisha Police leadership, with Mishra stepping in to ensure continuity in the force’s functioning.

Mishra, currently heading the CID and Crime Branch, is expected to oversee law and order across the state while balancing his existing responsibilities. The appointment reflects the government’s emphasis on maintaining stability in policing during a period of transition.

Officials said the arrangement is temporary until a full‑time successor is appointed. The additional charge ensures that the state police force continues to function smoothly without disruption in leadership.

On Thursday, the Supreme Court directed the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) not to finalise Odisha’s next DGP until August 18, when the court is scheduled to hear a petition challenging the procedure. A bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant asked the UPSC to defer its meeting reportedly scheduled to finalise the candidate.

The Odisha government had initially sent the names of three senior IPS officers—Sudhanshu Sarangi (1990 batch), Susanta Kumar Nath and RP Koche (both 1993 batch)—to the UPSC for consideration. Later, the list was expanded to 11 officers, including those from the 1994 to 1996 batches.
Also Read: Supreme Court Directs UPSC to Defer Odisha DGP Selection Meeting Till August 18

On August 10, the State government promoted two 1994‑batch IPS officers, Sanjeeb Kumar Panda and Yeshwant Kumar Jethwa, to the rank of Director General of Police. Their elevation could bring them into contention if the panel submitted to the UPSC is revised.

As Odisha awaits clarity from the Supreme Court, Mishra’s interim appointment ensures that the police force continues to function without disruption during this period of transition.