Shaik Darvesh Saheb, Kerala's Current DGP

Shaik Darvesh Saheb, born July 10, 1964, in Andhra Pradesh, is Kerala’s current DGP, appointed on June 27, 2023, with retirement extended to June 30, 2025.
He has a unique background with degrees in agriculture (BSc, MSc, PhD in Agronomy) and a PGDFM, joining IPS in 1990, Kerala cadre.
His career includes roles like ASP, SP in multiple districts, ADGP in Vigilance, Crime Branch, and DGP of Prisons before becoming DGP.
He earned awards like the President’s Police Medal (2016) and UN Peace Keeping Medal for Kosovo service.
Notable actions include filing a case against former CM Oommen Chandy; his DGP appointment stirred political speculation.

Background and Education:
Shaik Darvesh Saheb grew up in a middle-class family in Andhra Pradesh, with his father a forest guard. He studied agriculture, earning a BSc and MSc from Sri Venkateswara Agricultural College, Tirupati, and a PhD in Agronomy from IARI, Delhi. He also holds a PGDFM, reflecting his diverse academic interests.

Career Highlights:
Joining IPS in 1990, Saheb served in roles like ASP in Nedumangad, SP in Wayanad, Kasaragod, and others, and commanded special police units. As ADGP, he led Vigilance, Crime Branch, and Law & Order. He was DGP of Prisons from August 2021 before becoming Kerala’s DGP in 2023, overseeing law enforcement and prison reforms.

Current Role and Impact:
As DGP until June 2025, Saheb manages Kerala’s police, focusing on crime prevention, anti-corruption, and public safety. His leadership is crucial for maintaining law and order in a diverse state, with ongoing efforts in modernizing police training and operations.

Shaik Darvesh Saheb: From Agricultural Roots to Leading Kerala’s Police Force A Comprehensive Biography

In the heart of Andhra Pradesh’s Kadapa district, in the village of Besta Veedhi, a young boy named Shaik Darvesh Saheb was born on July 10, 1964. Now, at 60 years old as of April 2025, he stands as the Director General of Police (DGP) of Kerala, appointed on June 27, 2023, and set to retire on June 30, 2025, following an extension from his initial retirement date of July 31, 2024. His journey from an agricultural scientist to the top law enforcement official in Kerala is a narrative of resilience, education, and dedication. This article explores his early life, educational achievements, illustrious career, key contributions, personal life, and notable actions, providing a detailed look at a leader shaping Kerala’s security landscape.

Early Life and Educational Foundation

Shaik Darvesh Saheb was born into a middle-class Muslim family in Besta Veedhi village, Badvel Municipality, Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh. His father, Mabu Saheb Bala Swamy, was a forest guard, whose commitment to duty left a lasting impression on young Darvesh, instilling values of hard work and integrity. Growing up with limited resources but rich family support, Saheb pursued his education with determination.

He completed his schooling in Telugu medium at Government Junior College, Porumamilla, Andhra Pradesh, laying a strong academic foundation. His passion for agriculture led him to Sri Venkateswara Agricultural College, Tirupati, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree (BSc) in Agriculture. He furthered his studies at the same institution, obtaining a Master’s degree (MSc) in Agriculture under Dr. T. Yallamanda Reddy, a renowned figure at Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU). Driven by a thirst for knowledge, Saheb pursued and completed a PhD in Agronomy at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) in Delhi, a prestigious institution known for its contributions to agricultural science. Additionally, he acquired a Post Graduate Diploma in Financial Management (PGDFM), reflecting his diverse academic interests and blending science with financial acumen.

This unique educational background spanning agriculture, agronomy, and financial management set Saheb apart from traditional police officers, equipping him with analytical skills and a multidisciplinary perspective that would prove invaluable in his law enforcement career.

Entry into the Indian Police Service (IPS)

In 1990, after completing his PhD, Shaik Darvesh Saheb cleared the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination on his first attempt, a feat that underscores his intellectual prowess and determination. He was allotted to the Kerala cadre of the Indian Police Service (IPS) on September 16, 1991, and confirmed in the service on September 16, 1993. This marked the beginning of a career that would see him rise through the ranks with distinction.

Saheb’s decision to join the IPS was driven by a deep-seated desire to serve society, a calling that transcended his initial academic pursuits in agriculture. His transition from academia to law enforcement was seamless, thanks to his disciplined approach and analytical mindset honed during years of research and study, setting the stage for a remarkable journey in public service.

Career Trajectory: A Tapestry of Leadership Roles

Over his three-decade-long career with the Kerala Police Force (KP), Shaik Darvesh Saheb has held numerous key positions, each contributing to his reputation as a versatile and effective leader. His career progression is detailed below, showcasing his breadth of experience across various domains of policing:

Early Roles: Saheb’s journey began as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in Nedumangad, Thiruvananthapuram district, where he gained initial exposure to law enforcement. He later served as Superintendent of Police (SP) in several districts, including Wayanad (his first SP posting), Kasaragod (handling sensitive border issues), Kannur (a politically volatile region), Palakkad (known for its agricultural significance), Railways (focusing on security across rail networks), and State Special Branch (intelligence gathering). These roles honed his operational and administrative skills, preparing him for senior leadership.
Command Roles: Saheb commanded both the Malabar Special Police (MSP) and Kerala Armed Police (KAP) 2nd Battalion during critical times when law-and-order situations demanded robust leadership, showcasing his ability to manage armed units effectively.
Special Assignments: He served as Governor’s Aide-De-Camp (ADC), a prestigious role requiring close coordination with constitutional authorities, highlighting his administrative capabilities. His international exposure came during a UN Peace Keeping mission in Kosovo in the late 1990s, where he earned the United Nations Peace Keeping Medal for his service, demonstrating his ability to operate on a global stage.
Senior Positions: As Inspector General (IG), Saheb oversaw critical units such as SBCID (State Crime Records Bureau), Police Headquarters (Thiruvananthapuram), Thiruvananthapuram Range (administrative oversight), Thrissur Range (a culturally significant region), and Armed Police Battalion (managing armed units). He also served as Additional Excise Commissioner, a role that extended his administrative acumen beyond traditional policing, focusing on revenue and regulatory enforcement.
Director Roles: Saheb was appointed Director of Kerala Police Academy twice, underscoring his expertise in training future police officers through rigorous programs. He also served as Assistant Director and Deputy Director at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy (SVPNPA) in Hyderabad during central deputation, contributing to national police training standards.
ADGP Tenure: Upon promotion to Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), Saheb held pivotal roles including Police Headquarters (overall coordination), Vigilance (leading anti-corruption efforts), Crime Branch (investigating major crimes), Northern Region (covering districts like Kasaragod and Kannur), Law and Order (maintaining public safety), and Jail Superintendent (overseeing prison reforms). These roles highlighted his strategic leadership in critical areas of policing.
DGP of Prisons & Correctional Services: In August 2021 before becoming overall DGP Saheb was appointed DGP of Prisons & Correctional Services. This role involved overseeing prison administration across Kerala during a period marked by challenges like overcrowding and inmate rehabilitation, focusing on modernizing infrastructure and improving conditions.
Appointment as DGP: On June 27, 2023, following a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Saheb was appointed as Kerala’s DGP, assuming office on July 1, 2023. His selection over more senior officers like K. Padmakumar (then DGP Prisons) was notable, with speculation that it was influenced by political considerations, possibly to appeal to Muslim voters or reward loyalty to Vijayan’s government. His retirement, initially set for July 31, 2024 (his 30th year of service), was extended to June 30, 2025, allowing him to continue leading until April 11, 2025, falls within this period.

Key Contributions and Achievements

Shaik Darvesh Saheb’s tenure has been marked by significant contributions to law enforcement, reflecting his ability to adapt and innovate:

UN Peace Keeping Mission: His service in Kosovo during the late 1990s showcased his ability to operate effectively on an international stage, earning him the United Nations Peace Keeping Medal and global recognition for his peacekeeping efforts.
Anti-Corruption Efforts: As ADGP Vigilance & Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB), Saheb led several high-profile investigations into corruption cases involving public officials, strengthening accountability within the state administration.
Crime Branch Leadership: His role as ADGP Crime Branch saw him overseeing investigations into major crimes across Kerala, ensuring swift justice and enhancing public safety.
Prison Reforms: As DGP Prisons & Correctional Services from August 2021 until June 2023, Saheb focused on modernizing prison infrastructure, improving inmate rehabilitation programs, and addressing overcrowding, contributing to better correctional services.
Law & Order Management: During his tenure as ADGP Law & Order (North Zone), Saheb ensured stability in sensitive regions like Kasaragod and Kannur, areas often prone to political violence, maintaining peace during critical periods.
Training Future Officers: As Director of Kerala Police Academy (twice), he played a crucial role in shaping the next generation of police officers through rigorous training programs, emphasizing community policing and modern law enforcement techniques.
Awards & Recognitions: Saheb’s exemplary service has been recognized with several prestigious awards:
Police Medal for Meritorious Service (PMMS) – Awarded in 2007 for his outstanding contributions to policing.
President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service (PPMDS) – Awarded in 2016, recognizing his distinguished service at senior levels.
Ati Utkrishta Seva Pathak – For outstanding service, a state-level honor.
United Nations Peace Keeping Medal – For his service in Kosovo, highlighting his international contributions.

These achievements underscore Saheb’s commitment to excellence and his ability to lead in diverse and challenging environments.

Notable Actions and Controversies

Saheb’s career has not been without high-profile actions and some controversy, reflecting the complexities of his role:

Case Against Oommen Chandy: One of his most notable actions was filing a case against former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy over sexual harassment allegations made by Solar scam accused Saritha Nair during Chandy’s tenure as CM. This action, taken during his tenure as ADGP Vigilance & Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB), demonstrated his commitment to upholding justice, even against powerful figures, and sparked significant public and political debate.
Appointment as DGP: His selection as DGP in June 2023 over more senior officers like K. Padmakumar stirred speculation about political motives. Some sources suggest it was a strategic move by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to appeal to Muslim voters, given Saheb’s clean record and community background. Others see it as a reward for loyalty to Vijayan’s government, though no concrete evidence supports these claims, and Saheb’s appointment was officially based on merit and seniority within the shortlist provided by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
Clean Record: Despite these controversies or perhaps because of them Saheb is widely regarded for maintaining an impeccable personal record, free from scandals or corruption allegations, which has bolstered his reputation as an officer of integrity.

Personal Life

Shaik Darvesh Saheb is married to Shaik Fareeda Fathima, a supportive partner throughout his demanding career. The couple has two children: a daughter, Dr Aisha Alia, who is married to Muhammad Ifthekar, and a son, Faraz Muhammad, both pursuing their own paths while their father continues to serve Kerala. Saheb’s personal life reflects simplicity and balance, remaining deeply connected to his roots despite his high-profile role. He manages family responsibilities effectively, ensuring his professional duties do not overshadow his personal commitments, reflecting a holistic approach to life.

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Assets and Financial Details

As of January 2023, Saheb’s declared assets include four residential plots: two in Kochi valued at Rs 30 lakhs and Rs 11 lakhs respectively, one in Hyderabad at Rs 74 lakhs, and one in Bengaluru at Rs 10 lakhs. These details, part of his IPS asset declarations, reflect his financial standing and transparency in public service.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Integrity and Service

Shaik Darvesh Saheb’s journey from an agricultural scientist to Kerala’s top police officer is inspiring a narrative of resilience shaped by education and dedication. His diverse background spanning agriculture research institutes like IARI Delhi to UN Peace Keeping missions has equipped him with unique perspectives rarely seen among police chiefs. As DGP until June 30, 2025, he continues leading Kerala Police through challenges like cybercrime prevention, ensuring communal harmony amidst political tensions across districts like Malappuram or Thrissur, especially during sensitive times such as elections or festivals. His legacy will undoubtedly influence the future of law enforcement in Kerala, leaving a mark of integrity, efficiency, and service to the public interest.

Table: Key Milestones in Shaik Darvesh Saheb’s Career

Year	Role/Contribution	Impact
1964	Born in Besta Veedhi, Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh	Laid foundation for future career
1990	Cleared UPSC, joined IPS, Kerala cadre	Began public service career
1991-1993	ASP Nedumangad, confirmed IPS	Gained initial law enforcement experience
Late 1990s	UN Peace Keeping mission in Kosovo	Earned international recognition
2007	Awarded Police Medal for Meritorious Service (PMMS)	Recognized for outstanding service
2016	Awarded President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service (PPMDS)	Honored for senior-level contributions
Aug 2021	Appointed DGP Prisons & Correctional Services	Oversaw prison reforms and rehabilitation
Jun 2023	Appointed DGP of Kerala, assumed office July 1	Led state police, extended retirement to 2025

This table summarizes key milestones, highlighting his educational achievements, career roles, and awards, providing a clear overview of his trajectory.

Shaik Darvesh Saheb, Kerala’s Current DGP

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