Kailash Makwana, a distinguished 1988-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has carved a remarkable legacy in Indian law enforcement, culminating in his appointment as the Director General of Police (DGP) of Madhya Pradesh on December 1, 2024. Known for his sharp intellect, unwavering integrity, and relentless pursuit of justice, Makwana’s career spans over three decades, marked by significant contributions to anti-corruption efforts, police modernization, and public safety. His journey from a young engineer to the state’s top cop is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and ability to navigate complex bureaucratic and political landscapes.
Early Life and Education
Born in Madhya Pradesh, Kailash Makwana displayed academic brilliance from an early age. He pursued a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) from the prestigious Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT), Bhopal, laying the foundation for his analytical and problem-solving skills. Driven by a thirst for knowledge, he furthered his education with a Master of Technology (M.Tech) from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi, one of India’s premier institutions. This unique blend of technical expertise and a disciplined mindset set the stage for his illustrious career in public service.
Makwana’s decision to join the Indian Police Service in 1988 was driven by a deep sense of duty to serve the nation and uphold justice. His technical background, combined with his commitment to public welfare, made him a standout candidate, earning him a place in the Madhya Pradesh cadre of the IPS.
A Dynamic Career in the Indian Police Service
Kailash Makwana’s career is a mosaic of diverse roles, each showcasing his versatility, leadership, and dedication to law enforcement. Over the past 36 years, he has served in various capacities, including Additional Director General (ADG) of Intelligence and Administration (2019), ADG of Narcotics and Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in 2020, and Director General (DG) of the Special Police Establishment (SPE) Lokayukta. His tenure in these roles was marked by bold initiatives and a proactive approach to tackling systemic challenges.
Tenure at Lokayukta: A Crusader Against Corruption
One of the most defining phases of Makwana’s career was his stint as DG of the Lokayukta’s Special Police Establishment (SPE) in 2022. Appointed in June, he took on the role with a mission to strengthen anti-corruption efforts in Madhya Pradesh. During his brief six-month tenure, Makwana reopened pending cases, accelerated investigations, and worked to improve the administrative structure of the SPE. He secured a budget increase to Rs 5 crore for the next fiscal year to enhance operational capabilities, addressing critical shortages in resources like vehicles and infrastructure.
However, his uncompromising stance on corruption led to friction with certain sections of the bureaucracy and political establishment. Despite his efforts, Makwana was transferred to the MP Police Housing Corporation in December 2022, a move that sparked significant controversy. Senior journalist N.K. Singh described the transfer as the sidelining of “one of the most honest and intrepid DGs of MP Lokayukta,” while retired IPS officer Rajendra Kumar praised Makwana’s impactful six-month tenure. Makwana himself responded with grace, emphasizing the potential for welfare initiatives in his new role as Chairman of the MP Police Housing Corporation.
Chairman of MP Police Housing Corporation
As Chairman of the MP Police Housing Corporation, Makwana focused on improving the living and working conditions of police personnel. His technical expertise proved invaluable in overseeing infrastructure projects aimed at modernizing police facilities. During this period, he maintained a low profile but continued to build a reputation for integrity and efficiency, which later positioned him as a frontrunner for the DGP role.
Appointment as DGP: A New Chapter
On November 24, 2024, the Madhya Pradesh government announced Kailash Makwana as the state’s new Director General of Police, succeeding Sudhir Saxena, who retired on November 30, 2024. The decision followed a rigorous selection process by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) on November 21, 2024, where Makwana’s name emerged at the top of a panel that included other senior officers like Ajay Sharma and Arvind Kumar. His appointment was formalized by the Home Department, with Chief Minister Mohan Yadav’s approval, just before the latter’s foreign trip.
Makwana officially assumed office on December 1, 2024, becoming the 32nd DGP of Madhya Pradesh. His appointment was widely celebrated, particularly after Chief Minister Yadav overturned a negative Annual Confidential Report (ACR) from Makwana’s Lokayukta tenure, awarding him a perfect score of 10/10. This intervention not only restored Makwana’s reputation but also underscored his credibility as a leader of integrity.
Notable Contributions and Controversies
As DGP, Makwana has wasted no time in addressing pressing issues. His tenure began with a focus on enhancing police efficiency and public trust. However, his leadership has not been without challenges or controversies.
The Salute Order Controversy
In April 2025, Makwana issued a directive mandating police personnel to salute Members of Parliament (MPs) during official functions, following a complaint by senior BJP leader and State Tribal Affairs Minister Kuwar Vijay Shah. Shah had reported instances where Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) failed to salute him at events in June 2024, prompting intervention from the Chief Minister’s office. The directive, formalized on April 22, 2025, sparked debate among police officers and political leaders, with some arguing it compromised the force’s autonomy, while others defended it as a necessary protocol to respect elected representatives.
Addressing Rising Crime Rates
Makwana has been vocal about societal challenges contributing to crime, particularly in the context of rising rape cases in Madhya Pradesh. In June 2025, he highlighted the role of internet pornography, mobile phones, and alcohol in distorting societal morality, emphasizing that law enforcement alone cannot curb such issues. Citing state home department statistics—7,294 rape cases in 2024 compared to 6,134 in 2020—he called for broader societal interventions to address moral degradation. His candid remarks, made during a review meeting in Ujjain, underscored his willingness to tackle complex issues head-on, even at the risk of public scrutiny.
Modernization and Welfare Initiatives
Makwana’s technical background has informed his approach to modernizing the Madhya Pradesh Police. He has prioritized upgrading infrastructure, enhancing training programs, and leveraging technology to improve crime detection and response times. His earlier efforts at the Lokayukta to secure funding for operational resources reflect his commitment to equipping the force with the tools needed to succeed.
Personal Traits and Leadership Style
Kailash Makwana is widely regarded as a no-nonsense officer with a reputation for fairness and discipline. His career, marked by seven transfers in three and a half years, including three during the Kamal Nath government, reflects his resilience in the face of bureaucratic turbulence. Colleagues describe him as a sharp, methodical leader who combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of policing challenges. His ability to remain composed under pressure, as seen in his response to the Lokayukta transfer, highlights his professionalism and focus on the greater good.
Makwana’s leadership style is collaborative yet firm. He emphasizes teamwork, as evidenced by his praise for the Madhya Pradesh Police during his tenure as DGP, and he is known for fostering a culture of accountability within the force. His educational background in engineering allows him to approach problems systematically, making him adept at implementing structural reforms.
Challenges Ahead
As DGP, Makwana faces significant challenges, including combating rising crime rates, addressing Naxalism in Madhya Pradesh’s border regions, and maintaining public trust in the police force. His predecessor, Sudhir Saxena, noted unprecedented success in neutralizing Naxalites, a legacy Makwana is expected to build upon. Additionally, he must navigate the delicate balance between political expectations and the police force’s operational independence, as highlighted by the salute order controversy.
Makwana’s tenure, set to continue until his retirement in December 2025, will be closely watched. His ability to implement reforms, strengthen anti-corruption measures, and address societal issues like crime and moral decline will define his legacy as one of Madhya Pradesh’s most impactful DGPs.
Conclusion
Kailash Makwana’s journey from an engineering graduate to the Director General of Police of Madhya Pradesh is a story of perseverance, integrity, and service. His appointment as DGP marks the culmination of a career defined by bold decisions, anti-corruption crusades, and a commitment to modernizing law enforcement. Despite controversies and challenges, Makwana remains a beacon of hope for a safer, more just Madhya Pradesh. As he leads the state’s police force, his vision and leadership will undoubtedly shape the future of policing in the region.