In a first-of-its-kind move, Delhi Police is introducing a merit-based examination for the appointment of Station House Officers (SHOs), replacing the traditional seniority-based selection process. This landmark reform aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and professionalism in police leadership.
As part of this initiative, Delhi Police will conduct an exam specifically for Cyber Police Stations, which play a critical role in combating digital crimes. The competition is intense—122 police inspectors have applied for just 15 available Cyber SHO positions. The exam is set to take place on March 18 at the Delhi Police Academy in Wazirabad.
With cyber threats escalating, the department is seeking highly skilled officers to lead investigations in cybercrime, digital forensics, and cybersecurity enforcement. “The competition is tough—only 15 will make it,” said an inspector from West Delhi. “Balancing police duties with exam preparation is exhausting, but we understand the significance of this role.”
The exam will cover a broad syllabus, including key laws such as the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), Cybercrime and IT laws, NDPS Act, POCSO Act, JJ Act, Arms Act, Delhi Police Act, and Companies Act. It will feature a mix of multiple-choice and descriptive questions designed to test legal knowledge, investigative skills, and decision-making abilities.
Senior officials are hailing this move as a game-changer. “This step will sharpen investigative skills and raise policing standards,” said a senior officer. “It’s a transparent, fair, and competitive way to appoint SHOs—something that was long overdue.”
As the exam date approaches, anticipation is high across Delhi police stations. Officers are engaged in last-minute revisions, discussing strategies with colleagues, and preparing for what could be a career-defining test. The government is also considering expanding this examination system to all SHO appointments in the future.
With Delhi Police embarking on this historic transformation, March 18 could mark the beginning of a new era in law enforcement leadership.
