According to the policy, transfers are to be made every year between April 15 and June 15.

Bhubaneswar: Police officers who have overstayed at their postings in violation of the government’s transfer policy are now under investigation. Odisha Police Headquarters has directed all district superintendents of police (SP) and deputy commissioners of police (DCP) in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack to ensure that officers serving at the same station for more than three years are transferred in line with state guidelines.A senior police officer said, “We have advised the heads of police districts and establishments to start identifying such officers and transfer them immediately as per the government’s policy. They have been advised to complete the process as soon as possible.”According to a circular issued by IGP (Personnel) S Praveen Kumar on Tuesday, no officer should be posted in the same district for more than six consecutive years, and no officer should be posted at the same station for more than three consecutive years. The instructions reiterate the policy of the state government. “Generally, a government servant can be transferred after serving a period of three years at one place,” the circular said.As per the policy, transfers are to be made annually between April 15 and June 15. “District transfer boards should be convened by April 20, proposals for inter-district transfers should be submitted to range offices by April 25. Range transfer boards should meet by April 30, while proposals requiring headquarters-level approval should reach the state police headquarters by May 10,” the letter said.The instructions emphasize that SPs and DCPs should conduct a thorough review to identify those personnel who have completed their tenure and initiate transfers within or outside the district. Officials have been directed to strictly follow the guidelines without any deviation.“The policy is clear, and it aims to ensure fairness, efficiency and accountability in policing,” said a senior headquarters official. “Transfers are routine, but this time the instructions are strict and uniform across all districts,” another official said.Some former police personnel have cautioned that posting at one place for a long time could lead to corruption and nepotism. A retired officer, requesting anonymity, said, “Many officers use unfair means and political influence to get good postings and remain in the same post for years. This practice must end.”