Tapan Deka Gets One-Year Extension as IB Chief, to Remain in Post Till June 2026

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New Delhi: In a key decision reflecting continuity at the top of India’s internal intelligence apparatus, Intelligence Bureau (IB) Director Tapan Kumar Deka has been granted a one-year extension in service till June 2026, according to a government order issued Tuesday.

Deka, a 1988-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Himachal Pradesh cadre, is widely regarded as one of India’s most formidable intelligence operatives, particularly known for his deft handling of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism and radicalisation cases. His tenure has seen significant contributions in national security matters, including critical operations in Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeastern states.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved the extension “in relaxation of the provisions of FR 56 (d) and Rule 16 (1A) of the All India Services (Death-cum-Retirement Benefits) Rules, 1958.” The order clarifies that the extension will last until June 30, 2026, or until further notice—whichever comes earlier.

This is Deka’s second consecutive one-year extension. Officials noted the move was made in the “public interest,” as per provisions that allow such extensions for key posts like the IB and RAW chiefs, Cabinet Secretary, and Home Secretary, even beyond the retirement age of 60.

Often dubbed India’s ‘superspy’, Deka’s reputation is built on a storied career in counterterrorism and intelligence operations. Before assuming charge as the IB chief in 2022, he led the agency’s operations wing for over two decades—a position in which he played a pivotal role in tackling the Indian Mujahideen, a homegrown terror outfit responsible for a series of deadly bombings across India during the 2000s.

He also earned plaudits for his behind-the-scenes leadership during the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, coordinating counter-assault efforts. More recently, his assignment in Assam during the tumultuous aftermath of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in 2019 drew praise for his effective crisis management amid widespread violence and unrest.

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