Race for next IB chief heats up, hunt on for successor
With IB Director Tapan Kumar Deka’s second extension ending June 30, 2026, the contest to head India’s internal intelligence agency has entered its final phase. Senior IPS officers with intelligence experience are under consideration, though no formal shortlist has been released.
One name emerging strongly from multiple corridors of power is Sunil Acharya, a 1991-batch Nagaland-cadre IPS officer currently serving as Special Secretary in the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW). Acharya is noted for his rare cross-agency expertise and a reputation for operational effectiveness.
During his years in the IB, Acharya played a key role as staff officer to former Director Rajiv Jain, a period marked by the agency’s success in solving several high-profile terror and espionage cases. His experience solidified his proficiency in developing human intelligence networks and conducting sensitive operations. Acharya’s tradecraft, reflecting Jain philosophy’s prioritisation of human intelligence over excessive reliance on technology, is considered one of his core strengths.
In 2019, he moved to R&AW, where his steady rise has included overseas postings and gained him broad institutional insight. Acharya’s effectiveness stems from an understated operational style, a comprehensive intelligence background, and a proven track record in handling both internal and external intelligence matters.
His ability to adapt, foster inter-agency coherence, and manage sensitive security operations positions him as a strong candidate for the IB Director role, especially given India present challenges in counter-terrorism, radicalisation, hybrid threats, and border stability.
Deka, who received extensions citing persistent security challenges, has focused his tenure on strengthening human intelligence networks, improving inter-agency coordination, and proactively addressing evolving threats.
There is another contender, Rithwik Rudra, IPS, 1993 batch, Himachal Cadre, who is seen as the incumbent Deka’s preferred choice. He has extensive hands-on IB experience, having served at the Additional Director and Joint Director levels and a family legacy in the IPS; his father, Kalyan Rudra, was Haryana DGP.
The next IB Director will inherit an expanded mandate that spans counter-terror operations, cyber intelligence, monitoring of internal stability, and coordination in an increasingly politically charged environment. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) is expected to take a final call in the coming weeks.
While no official announcement has been made, the decision will be among the most closely watched appointments in India’s security establishment this year. The appointment will reveal the Government’s internal security priorities as discussions continue ahead of the June 30 deadline.
