Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh government has promoted IPS officer Dhruv Kant Thakur (DK Thakur) to the rank of Director General (DG). Known across the state for his honesty, integrity, and bold working style, Thakur was earlier serving as Additional Director General (ADG), Special Security Force (SSF). The official order, issued by the Home Department on October 31 after the Governor’s approval, states that the 1994 batch officer has been elevated to the DG level (Pay Matrix Level 16, ₹2,05,400-₹2,24,400). His new posting order will be issued separately.
A Distinguished Career Spanning Nearly Three Decades
IPS DK Thakur, a 1994 batch officer, has served the Uttar Pradesh Police for nearly 30 years, holding key positions in law enforcement and administration. He began his career in 1996 as ASP Gorakhpur, marking the start of a journey defined by discipline and dedication. Over the years, he has served as SP or SSP in multiple districts, including Gonda, Hardoi, Varanasi, Sultanpur, Baghpat, Chandauli, Kanpur Dehat, Ambedkarnagar, Unnao, and Lucknow.
DK Thakur was promoted as DIG in 2009, IG in 2013, and ADG in 2019. After six years in the ADG rank, he has now been promoted to DG, the highest operational rank in the police hierarchy.
Prominent Tenure in Lucknow
DK Thakur’s tenure in Lucknow brought him into the public spotlight. He served the city in multiple capacities as SSP, DIG, and later as Police Commissioner after the city transitioned to a Commissionerate system in 2020.
As Police Commissioner, Thakur’s tenure was widely appreciated for efficient crime control, citizen friendly policing, and infrastructure development. During his leadership, six new police stations PGI, Gautampalli, Jankipuram, Para, Vibhuti Khand, and Indiranagar were established to improve public accessibility. He also activated the Anti Human Trafficking Unit to function as a full fledged police station.
His tenure also coincided with the second wave of COVID-19, during which his team’s humanitarian approach assisting stranded citizens and ensuring medical support was widely praised.
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Experience in ATS, CBI, and Key Investigations
Apart from district postings, DK Thakur has also held crucial assignments in specialized agencies. He has served as ADG, Anti Terrorist Squad (ATS) and held an important role in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Known for his forensic driven and analytical approach, Thakur has led several high profile investigations, including:
- The 2010-11 double murder of medical officers linked to the NRHM scam in Lucknow.
- The 2018 Bareilly lawyer murder case, which he personally monitored.
- The investigations into the murders of gangsters Ajit Singh (2021) and Virendra Thakur (2022), both solved under his supervision.
His ability to combine strict policing with a scientific investigative approach has earned him respect across police circles.
Personal Background and Education
Born on January 1, 1970, in Madhpura district of Bihar, Dhruv Kant Thakur pursued his Master’s degree in Sanskrit and was educated through the Gurukul system, which shaped his disciplined and ethical outlook.
His humility and accessibility to the public have made him one of the most respected officers in the state. Known to personally interact with citizens and subordinates alike, Thakur has consistently emphasized transparent policing and accountability.
Recognition and Legacy
Throughout his service, DK Thakur has earned multiple commendations for maintaining law and order, handling sensitive situations, and leading operations with integrity. He has also been honored with the Police Medal for Meritorious Service.
His promotion to Director General is widely seen as recognition of his uncompromising honesty, administrative excellence, and commitment to public service.
As DK Thakur steps into the DG rank, expectations remain high that his experience, discipline, and people centric approach will further strengthen the image of Uttar Pradesh Police as a professional and citizen oriented force.
