By Abul Hasan (THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM)
In a significant move aimed at strengthening the leadership structure of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the elevation of two senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officers to the rank of Special Director. Both officers bring with them decades of policing experience, commitment to integrity, and a proven record of service in investigative and administrative roles.

Manoj Shashidhar: Seasoned Investigator with Strong Administrative Acumen
Manoj Shashidhar, IPS officer of the 1994 Gujarat cadre, has been appointed as Special Director in the CBI. He is presently serving as Additional Director in the agency. Known for his sharp investigative skills and leadership qualities, Shashidhar has played a pivotal role in several high-profile investigations over the years. His elevation comes with the approval of the Cabinet to restore the post of Special Director currently operating at the grade of Additional Director. He will serve in the position until his superannuation on November 30, 2030, unless otherwise directed.

Sampat Meena: A Distinguished Officer with Diverse Experience
Alongside Shashidhar, Ms. Sampat Meena, a 1994 batch officer of the Jharkhand cadre, has also been appointed as Special Director in the CBI. Currently working as Additional Director, Meena’s appointment reflects the government’s confidence in her ability to contribute to the agency’s complex investigative framework. Her service tenure as Special Director will continue until March 31, 2031, or until further orders, with her post also restored from a grade operating at the level of Additional Director.

Strengthening the Leadership of CBI
The appointments of Shashidhar and Meena come at a crucial time for the CBI, which continues to handle some of the most sensitive cases of national and international significance. Both officers have had long careers marked by exposure to critical assignments in policing, vigilance, and law enforcement. Their elevation not only strengthens the leadership framework of the agency but also ensures continuity and stability in its functioning.

With these approvals, the government has reaffirmed its focus on empowering the country’s premier investigating agency with experienced leadership to meet the challenges of modern-day crime, cyber threats, and corruption-related investigations.