Government Grants One-Year Tenure Extension to CBI Director Praveen Sood
Why it matters
Praveen Sood, a 1986-batch IPS officer, was originally appointed CBI Director in May 2023 for a two-year term. His extension utilizes existing provisions under the Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, which permits the government to extend a director's tenure annually, capping total service at five years.
Operational continuity in ongoing sensitive investigations is a primary driver behind this move. Any such extension requires the approval of a high-powered committee consisting of the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and the Chief Justice of India, ensuring a degree of consensus in the leadership appointment process.
- Initial Appointment: May 2023
- New Tenure End Date: May 2027
- Legal Framework: Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act
- Committee Composition: PM, Leader of the Opposition, and the CJI
Glossary
DSPE Act: The Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946, serves as the primary legislation governing the CBI's jurisdiction and operational mandate.
Fixed Tenure: A statutory duration of service intended to insulate the office holder from arbitrary removal or interference.
NaukriSync Exam Angle
Polity & Governance. Key takeaway: Praveen Sood’s term now runs until May 2027. Exams may test the composition of the high-powered committee or the legal basis for CBI leadership extensions under the DSPE Act.