New Delhi, August 21, 2025 – In a bold move signaling administrative urgency, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced the appointment of Satish Golcha as the new Commissioner of Delhi Police, just one day after Chief Minister Rekha Gupta was attacked during a public hearing at her Civil Lines camp office.
Security Breach Spurs Change
On August 20, 2025, CM Rekha Gupta, presiding over a “Jan Sunwai” (public hearing), was assaulted by a man disguised as a petitioner. He reportedly struck her and pulled her hair, resulting in injuries to her head, shoulders, and hands. Officials described the assault as “life-threatening,” raising serious concerns about heightened risks to public figures. In her first public reaction, Gupta condemned the attack as a “cowardly attempt” to derail public service, reaffirming her resolve to continue serving the people undeterred.
Facing mounting criticism over security lapses, authorities also elevated the CM’s protection to Z‑category CRPF cover, transferring her security oversight from Delhi Police to the Central Reserve Police Force.
Who Is Satish Golcha?
Satish Golcha is a seasoned IPS officer from the 1992 batch, serving under the AGMUT cadre—covering Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and Union Territories.
Career Highlights:
- Currently Director General (Prisons), Delhi, a role he assumed on May 1, 2024, initially overseeing a period of high gang-related tensions in Tihar and other central jails.
- Earlier roles include Special Commissioner (Intelligence) within Delhi Police.
- Held the position of DGP of Arunachal Pradesh.
- Acted as Special CP (Law & Order) during the 2020 Northeast Delhi riots.
- Also served in substantive capacities as DCP, Joint CP, and Special CP in multiple Delhi zones.
The Transition
Golcha replaces Shashi Bhushan Kumar Singh (SBK Singh), a 1988-batch IPS officer of the same AGMUT cadre, who had held additional charge of the Commissioner’s role since August 1, following the retirement of then-chief Sanjay Arora. The MHA’s order states that Golcha takes the position “with effect from the date of assumption of charge and until further orders”.
Some reports suggest his tenure could extend until his retirement in April 2027, offering a stable leadership window for Delhi’s police force.
Why This Appointment Matters
- Crisis Response: In the wake of a direct security failure involving the Chief Minister, Golcha’s appointment is intended to restore trust and leadership at the top.
- Expertise in Sensitive Domains: His background in prison administration, intelligence, and riot management marks him as a strong candidate to handle law-and-order challenges effectively.
- Symbolic Reboot: A clear message from the government that such security lapses will prompt decisive administrative changes.
Satish Golcha at a Glance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Satish Golcha |
| Batch/Cadre | 1992, IPS (AGMUT cadre) |
| Current Role | Director General (Prisons), Delhi (since May 2024) |
| Previous Key Positions | Special CP (Intelligence); DGP Arunachal Pradesh; Special CP (Law & Order during 2020 riots); DCP, Joint CP in Delhi |
| New Role | Commissioner of Delhi Police (from August 21, 2025) |
| Reason for Appointment | After the attack on CM Rekha Gupta, to reestablish confidence and security leadership |
Satish Golcha steps into the Delhi Police Commissioner’s role at one of the most critical moments in recent history. With his diverse administrative and crisis-management experience, all eyes are on how he will strengthen security protocols and redefine public confidence in Delhi’s policing apparatus.
