The Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026 (CAPF Bill 2026) is being discussed in the Rajya Sabha. The opposition is opposing this bill and demanding to withdraw it or send it to the select committee. During the discussion on the bill, Aam Aadmi Party MP Sanjay Singh said that we are not in favor of this bill, hence it should be sent to the select committee. At the same time, SP MP Ram Gopal Yadav said that the Home Minister said that infiltrators are being selectively expelled, this bill is a loss-making deal.

Ram Gopal Yadav further said that if you do not listen to the Supreme Court, then how will you listen to us, but this is an anti-people bill. Take it back or send it to the select committee. On the other hand, Congress MP Digvijay Singh said that this bill is against paramilitary forces, it is not correction but destruction. There is an attempt to overturn the court order. We oppose it, withdraw it or send it to the select committee.

What is the purpose of this bill?

The Central Armed Police Forces (General Administration) Bill, 2026 (CAPF Bill 2026) aims to streamline recruitment, promotion and service conditions for the CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP and SSB. The bill sets promotional opportunities and rules for cadre officers while maintaining 50 per cent IPS deputation at top posts.

Highlights and controversies of CAPF Bill 2026:

1. IPS Deputation: Under the bill, 50 per cent of the posts at the IG level, at least 67 per cent at the ADG level and posts of Special DG/DG will be reserved for IPS on deputation (IPS), which will continue the role of IPS in the top leadership in these forces.
2. Effect of court order: According to the bill, the government will have the right to notify rules, which can circumvent previous decisions or decrees of the Supreme Court, on which legal debate is going on.
3. Objectives and Benefits: Its objective is to end the years-long IPS vs CAPF cadre supremacy dispute and bring transparency in promotions.
4. Reason for protest: CAPF cadre officers are protesting that they render entire service to the force, yet the top posts are held by IPS from outside, which leads to stagnation in their promotions.

Future and impact of the bill

The government says that this bill will meet the operational needs and bring transparency in promotions. However, cadre officers are concerned that this may limit their career opportunities. If this bill is passed, there may be major changes in the structure and leadership of CAPF.