- Mohit Agarwal is the current Police Commissioner of Varanasi, appointed on March 11, 2024, and continues to serve as of April 2025.
- A 1997-batch IPS officer, he has a background in mechanical engineering and industrial engineering.
- He has been recognized for bravery, notably receiving a gallantry medal for a 2020 hostage rescue operation.
- His career includes significant roles in organizing the 2019 Kumbh Mela and leading anti-terrorism efforts.
- A controversial decision to deploy police in priests’ attire at Kashi Vishwanath Temple in 2024 drew criticism.
Introduction
Mohit Agarwal, a distinguished Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, serves as the Police Commissioner of Varanasi, a city of immense cultural and political significance. His journey from an engineering graduate to a decorated law enforcement leader reflects a blend of technical expertise, strategic acumen, and unwavering commitment to public safety. As of April 2025, Agarwal continues to shape Varanasi’s policing landscape, navigating complex challenges with a focus on security and community welfare.
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Early Life and Education
Born on September 6, 1973, in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, Mohit Agarwal grew up in a family that valued education and discipline. His father, Krishna Mohan Agarwal, likely played a pivotal role in fostering his sense of responsibility. Agarwal excelled academically, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering followed by a Postgraduate Diploma in Industrial Engineering. This technical foundation equipped him with analytical skills that would later prove invaluable in his policing career.
Career in the Indian Police Service
Joining the IPS in 1997, Agarwal began his service under the Rajasthan cadre before being allocated to Uttar Pradesh. His career has been marked by steady promotions, reflecting his dedication and leadership. Key milestones include his roles as Inspector General (IG) of Kanpur, Additional Director General (ADG) of the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), and his current position as Varanasi’s Police Commissioner.
Notable Achievements
Agarwal’s career is studded with achievements, including his pivotal role in the 2019 Kumbh Mela, where he ensured security for millions of pilgrims. His bravery in leading a 2020 operation to rescue 25 children held hostage in Farrukhabad earned him a gallantry medal. As ATS chief, he oversaw the arrest of an Indian embassy staffer involved in espionage, bolstering national security.
Controversies
In April 2024, Agarwal faced criticism for deploying police officers in priests’ attire at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a move intended to enhance security but condemned by opposition leader Akhilesh Yadav. Despite the controversy, Agarwal remains focused on his mission to maintain law and order.
Biography of Police Commissioner Mohit Agarwal
Background and Early Life
Mohit Agarwal was born on September 6, 1973, in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, a city known for its vibrant culture and historical significance. Raised in a middle-class family, his father, Krishna Mohan Agarwal, likely instilled values of hard work and integrity. Growing up in Bareilly, Agarwal was exposed to the challenges of urban and rural life, shaping his understanding of community dynamics. His early education in local schools laid a strong academic foundation, with a particular aptitude for mathematics and science.
Agarwal pursued higher education with rigor, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, followed by a Postgraduate Diploma in Industrial Engineering from a reputed institution. His technical education honed his problem-solving skills and analytical mindset, qualities that would later distinguish him in the complex world of law enforcement.
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Entry into the Indian Police Service
In 1997, at the age of 24, Agarwal joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) as part of the 1997 batch, initially under the Rajasthan cadre before being reallocated to Uttar Pradesh. His recruitment on August 25, 1997, marked the start of a career dedicated to public safety. The IPS, one of India’s most prestigious civil services, requires clearing the highly competitive Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination, a feat that underscores Agarwal’s intellectual prowess and determination.
His early years in the service involved rigorous training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad, where he developed skills in law enforcement, crisis management, and leadership. Confirmed in his role on August 25, 1999, Agarwal quickly adapted to the demands of policing, leveraging his engineering background to approach operational challenges systematically.
Career Progression
Agarwal’s career trajectory reflects a steady ascent through the ranks, with promotions that highlight his competence and leadership:
| Rank | Date of Promotion | Key Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Scale | 01/01/2001 | Early supervisory roles, managing district-level policing operations. |
| Selection Grade | 01/01/2010 | Oversaw larger jurisdictions, focusing on crime prevention and public safety. |
| Deputy Inspector General (DIG) | 31/12/2012 | Led regional police operations, coordinating multi-district law enforcement efforts. |
| Inspector General (IG) | 13/01/2015 | Managed high-profile assignments, including Kanpur’s law and order. |
| Additional Director General (ADG) | 01/01/2022 | Directed strategic operations, notably in the Anti-Terrorist Squad. |
Early Career
In his initial postings, Agarwal served in various districts across Uttar Pradesh, tackling issues like communal tensions, organized crime, and public safety. His technical background aided in implementing data-driven policing strategies, such as optimizing patrol routes and resource allocation. These early experiences built his reputation as a meticulous and proactive officer.
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Inspector General of Kanpur
As IG of Kanpur, Agarwal faced one of his most challenging assignments during the 2020 Bikru massacre, where gangster Vikas Dubey orchestrated the killing of eight police personnel. Agarwal’s leadership in the aftermath was critical, as he spearheaded operations to apprehend Dubey’s aides, navigating a high-stakes manhunt that drew national attention. His ability to maintain calm under pressure earned him respect within the force.
ADG of Anti-Terrorist Squad
In August 2023, Agarwal was appointed ADG of the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), a role that placed him at the forefront of counter-terrorism efforts. During his seven-month tenure, his team achieved a significant breakthrough by arresting Satyendra Siwal, an Indian embassy staffer in Moscow, who was part of a Pakistan ISI espionage ring . This operation highlighted Agarwal’s strategic insight and commitment to national security.
Police Commissioner of Varanasi
On March 11, 2024, Agarwal was appointed Police Commissioner of Varanasi, a position he holds as of April 16, 2025 . Varanasi, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s parliamentary constituency, demands exceptional policing to balance cultural sensitivities, tourism, and security. Agarwal’s role involves overseeing law enforcement, managing large-scale events, and ensuring public safety in a city that attracts millions of pilgrims annually.
Notable Achievements
Agarwal’s career is marked by several high-profile achievements:
- Kumbh Mela 2019: As a key organizer, Agarwal ensured robust security arrangements for the Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings. His efforts earned him the Kumbh Seva Medal in 2019.
- Farrukhabad Hostage Crisis (2020): Agarwal led a daring operation to rescue 25 children held hostage by Subhash Batham in Farrukhabad, earning a gallantry medal for his bravery.
- ATS Espionage Bust: His leadership in uncovering an ISI espionage ring involving an Indian embassy staffer demonstrated his prowess in counter-intelligence.
- Service Decorations: Agarwal’s accolades include the Police Medal for Gallantry (2023), President’s Police Medal (2023), Police Medal (2013), UNMIK Medal (2005-2006), and multiple Director General’s Commendation Discs (Silver, Gold, Platinum).
| Decoration | Date Awarded | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Police Medal for Gallantry (PMG) | 15/08/2023 | Leadership in Farrukhabad hostage rescue operation. |
| President’s Police Medal (PPM) | 26/01/2023 | Distinguished service in law enforcement. |
| Police Medal (PM) | 15/08/2013 | Meritorious service in policing. |
| UNMIK Medal | 2005-2006 | Contribution to United Nations Mission in Kosovo. |
| Kumbh Seva Medal | 2019 | Outstanding organization of Kumbh Mela security. |
| DG’s Commendation Disc (Silver) | 15/08/2018 | Exceptional performance in policing duties. |
| DG’s Commendation Disc (Gold) | 15/08/2019 | Leadership in high-stakes operations. |
| DG’s Commendation Disc (Platinum) | 26/01/2021 | Exemplary service in crisis management. |
Controversies and Challenges
Agarwal’s tenure has not been without controversy. In April 2024, his decision to deploy police officers in priests’ attire at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple sparked debate. Intended to enhance security discreetly, the move was criticized by Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav, who called it “condemnable” . The controversy highlighted the delicate balance between security and cultural sensitivity in Varanasi. Agarwal has since focused on transparent policing to rebuild trust.
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Personal Life and Interests
While Agarwal maintains a private personal life, his professional demeanor reflects discipline and focus. Colleagues describe him as approachable yet resolute, with a knack for strategic planning. Outside work, he is believed to enjoy reading about military history and staying physically active, aligning with the demands of his high-pressure role.
Legacy and Future Prospects
As of April 16, 2025, Mohit Agarwal continues to lead Varanasi’s police force with a focus on modernizing operations and enhancing community engagement. His technical background and decorated service record position him as a potential candidate for higher roles, such as Director General of Police or positions in national security agencies. His ability to navigate controversies while delivering results underscores his resilience and adaptability.
Agarwal’s journey from Bareilly to Varanasi is a story of transformation from an engineer to a guardian of law and order. His contributions to public safety, national security, and cultural events like the Kumbh Mela have left an indelible mark on Uttar Pradesh’s policing landscape. As he continues to serve, Agarwal remains a beacon for aspiring officers, demonstrating that dedication and courage can shape a safer society.