- Amit Lodha, a 1998-batch IPS officer from Bihar Cadre, was promoted to Additional Director General (ADG) by the Nitish Kumar government on March 16, 2025, marking a significant career milestone.
- Born on February 22, 1974, in Rajasthan, he graduated from IIT Delhi in 1995 and joined IPS after clearing the UPSC exam, known for his work in tackling Bihar’s crime.
- His notable achievements include cracking the Ashok Mahto gang case and authoring Bihar Diaries, which inspired the Netflix series Khakee: The Bihar Chapter.
- Lodha faced controversies, including an ED probe in 2022 for disproportionate assets linked to his book and series, but his promotion suggests resolution or clearance.
- He is married to Tanu Lodha, has two children, and is recognized for community initiatives like “Sambhav” and “Bharat Ke Veer.”
Early Life and Education
Amit Lodha was born on February 22, 1974, in Rajasthan, into a family where his father, Dr. Narender Lodha, was a doctor, and his mother was a homemaker. Inspired by his maternal grandfather, an IAS officer, Lodha aimed for civil services. He graduated from IIT Delhi in 1995, facing struggles with depression during his time there, which shaped his resilience.
Career Highlights
Joining the IPS in 1998, Lodha was assigned to Bihar, a state known for lawlessness. His early career involved tackling gangsters, with a standout achievement being the arrest of Vijay Samrat, detailed in his book Bihar Diaries . His use of technology, like call observation, modernized police work, and he rose through ranks, culminating in his ADG promotion on March 16, 2025.
Personal Life and Contributions
Married to Tanu Lodha since 1999, he is a father of two and enjoys tennis and is a fan of Kishore Kumar. Lodha launched “Sambhav” for free education and “Bharat Ke Veer” with Akshay Kumar to aid martyrs’ families, reflecting his community engagement.
Detailed Biography of IPS Amit Lodha: A Dynamic Journey of Service and Inspiration
Introduction: A Rising Star in Indian Policing
On March 16, 2025, the Nitish Kumar-led government in Bihar elevated IPS officer Amit Lodha to the rank of Additional Director General (ADG), a testament to his decades-long service in one of India’s most challenging policing environments. This promotion, announced amidst a backdrop of modernization and reform, underscores Lodha’s transformation from a young engineer to a celebrated law enforcement leader. His story, marked by high-profile cases, literary success, and community engagement, is not just a professional odyssey but a narrative of human resilience and societal impact.
Early Life: Roots in Rajasthan and Academic Triumphs
Amit Lodha was born on February 22, 1974, in Rajasthan, into a family where public service was a legacy. His father, Dr. Narender Lodha, served as a doctor at Sawai Mansingh Hospital in Jaipur, while his mother managed the household. Lodha’s maternal grandfather, an IAS officer, inspired his civil service aspirations. Growing up, he was driven by a desire to serve, which led him to IIT Delhi, where he graduated in 1995. However, his time at IIT was fraught with challenges; he battled depression and suicidal thoughts, feeling overwhelmed by the competitive environment.
The IPS Journey: Navigating Bihar’s Chaos
Joining the IPS in 1998 as part of the Bihar Cadre, Lodha stepped into a state notorious for gang wars, kidnappings, and corruption. His early postings as Superintendent of Police (SP) tested his mettle, particularly in Sheikhpura, where he tackled the Ashok Mahto gang. This gang, with political backing from JDU leaders, was involved in murders and massacres, including the 2006 Manikpur Village incident. Lodha’s strategic use of technology, such as call observation and parallel listening, was pivotal in dismantling the gang, leading to Mahto’s arrest in a controversial public humiliation . His career progressed through roles like Deputy Inspector General (DIG) in 2013 and Inspector General (IG), showcasing his ability to modernize policing through training and community initiatives.
Literary and Media Impact: From Bihar Diaries to Netflix
Lodha’s experiences found a broader audience through his writing. In 2018, he published Bihar Diaries: The True Story of How Bihar’s Most Dangerous Criminal Was Caught, a gripping account of his chase across three states to arrest Vijay Samrat, a feared gangster . The book, a national best-seller, inspired the 2022 Netflix series Khakee: The Bihar Chapter, which dramatized his battle against crime, starring Karan Tacker as Lodha. This media exposure, while boosting his fame, also drew scrutiny, as we’ll explore later.
Community Engagement: Beyond the Uniform
Beyond policing, Lodha’s initiatives reflect his commitment to society. He launched “Sambhav,” aiming to provide free education to underprivileged students, and “Bharat Ke Veer,” a campaign with actor Akshay Kumar to support martyrs’ families, raising around Rs. 30 crores. These efforts, rooted in his engineering background and empathy, bridged the gap between police and public, earning him respect as a community leader.
Controversies: Navigating Scrutiny
Lodha’s rise was not without controversy. In December 2022, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) opened a case against him and his wife, Komudi Lodha, for disproportionate assets linked to his book and Netflix deal, alleging he failed to seek government approval . The Patna High Court, in January 2024, refused to quash the FIR, directing the investigation to conclude within six months . Media reports suggested political dimensions, given Bihar’s charged environment. However, his promotion to ADG in March 2025 suggests the case may have been resolved favorably, though details remain unclear, highlighting the complexity of such allegations in public service.
Conclusion: A Legacy in the Making
At 51, Amit Lodha stands as ADG, tasked with steering Bihar’s police through modern challenges like cybercrime and terrorism. His journey—from a struggling IITian to a celebrated IPS officer—embodies the spirit of service and innovation. His promotion, amidst past controversies, reaffirms his standing, offering a narrative of redemption and leadership. As Bihar rises, Lodha’s story continues to inspire, proving that courage, conviction, and community can transform even the most daunting landscapes.
Table: Key Milestones in Amit Lodha’s Career
| Year | Milestone | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1974 | Born | Rajasthan, into a family with civil service legacy |
| 1995 | Graduated from IIT Delhi | Faced depression, shaped resilience |
| 1998 | Joined IPS, Bihar Cadre | Began career in a lawless state |
| 2006 | Arrested Ashok Mahto Gang | Used technology, faced political backlash |
| 2013 | Promoted to DIG | Continued modernization efforts |
| 2018 | Published Bihar Diaries | Best-seller, inspired Netflix series |
| 2022 | Faced ED Probe | Disproportionate assets case, court proceedings |
| 2025 | Promoted to ADG | March 16, under Nitish Kumar government, amid resolved controversies |