In a city where history and modernity intertwine, IPS Ashish Srivastava has taken charge as the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Central in the Lucknow Police Commissionerate, a role that places him at the heart of the capital’s law enforcement framework. Appointed on March 25, 2025, this 2013-batch officer brings a blend of grit, intellect, and a proven track record to one of Uttar Pradesh’s most dynamic policing zones. His journey—from a small-town dreamer to a key figure in India’s police force—is as compelling as the challenges he now faces in ensuring safety and order in Lucknow’s bustling central district.
Born on June 12, 1987, in the quiet town of Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, Srivastava’s roots are steeped in simplicity. His father, a retired government clerk, and his mother, a homemaker, nurtured his early curiosity with tales of valor and justice. A standout student, he pursued a B.Tech in Electronics and Communication from a reputed institute in Kanpur, graduating with honors in 2009. Yet, the allure of technology took a backseat to his calling for public service, leading him to crack the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2012 and join the Indian Police Service.
Srivastava’s career kicked off with a baptism by fire. As Assistant Superintendent of Police in Shravasti in 2015, he tackled rampant smuggling along the Indo-Nepal border, earning praise for his strategic raids that dismantled local crime networks. His tenure as Superintendent of Police (SP) in Sonbhadra showcased his ability to balance law enforcement with community engagement—launching “Samvidhan Diwas” workshops to educate tribal youth about their rights, a move that reduced petty crimes by 15% in the region. Later, as SP Basti, he spearheaded a campaign against illegal liquor dens, blending technology with on-ground action to curb a long-standing menace.
His stints in Lucknow itself are noteworthy. As DCP (Traffic) in 2020, Srivastava introduced an AI-based traffic monitoring system, easing congestion in a city notorious for its chaotic roads. His subsequent role as DCP (East) saw him crack down on cyber fraud, leading a team that busted a phishing ring targeting senior citizens—a case that made headlines for its precision and speed. These experiences have primed him for his latest assignment, where the Central zone’s mix of commercial hubs, residential pockets, and historical landmarks demands both vigilance and finesse.
What makes Srivastava unique is his knack for innovation. Colleagues recall his “open mic” sessions during postings—informal gatherings where constables could voice concerns directly to him, fostering trust within the ranks. His engineering background shines through in his reliance on data-driven policing, often seen poring over crime heatmaps late into the night. Yet, he’s no desk-bound officer; stories abound of him joining night patrols incognito, once nabbing a chain-snatcher in Hazratganj after a chase on foot.
As DCP Central, Srivastava inherits a high-stakes beat. The zone, encompassing areas like Kaiserbagh and Chowk, is a microcosm of Lucknow’s vibrancy—and its vulnerabilities. From managing festival crowds to curbing street crime, his role requires a steady hand. Early signs suggest he’s up to the task: within days of taking charge, he rolled out a pilot for real-time CCTV analytics to deter pickpocketing in busy markets, a nod to his tech-forward approach.
Challenges loom large, though. Traffic snarls, rising cyber threats, and the pressure of policing a politically charged capital test even the best. Critics point to his relatively short stints in past roles, questioning if he’ll stay long enough to leave a lasting mark. But those who know him argue it’s his adaptability that matters—each posting, however brief, has borne his signature of change.
Off the beat, Srivastava is a quiet soul. An amateur photographer, he captures Lucknow’s minarets and bylanes in black-and-white, a hobby that reflects his eye for detail. Married to a school principal, he’s a father of two, often spotted at local parks on rare off-days, teaching his kids to fly kites—a nod to his Ballia roots.
As Lucknow’s Central zone welcomes IPS Ashish Srivastava, the city watches a leader poised to blend tradition with transformation. His appointment isn’t just a new chapter for him—it’s a promise of safer streets and smarter policing for a capital that never sleeps.