JAMMU, Sept 7: In a major policy decision aimed at providing career progression opportunities to Special Police Officers (SPOs) and departmental staff, the Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has amended the Jammu and Kashmir Police Rules, 1960, introducing a new recruitment framework for constable posts in the police department.
Under the revised rules, 80 per cent of constable vacancies will be filled through direct recruitment, while 15 per cent will be reserved for the adjustment of eligible Special Police Officers (SPOs) and five per cent for the promotion of in-service followers.
The changes have come into effect following a notification issued by the Home Department on September 7, 2026. The government has inserted a new Rule 174-A into the Jammu and Kashmir Police Rules, paving the way for a structured recruitment and promotion mechanism within the force.
The move is expected to benefit thousands of SPOs who have been serving alongside the police in challenging conditions, particularly in counter-insurgency operations across Jammu and Kashmir. For the first time, a dedicated quota has been created to facilitate their induction into the regular constable cadre.
According to the notification, SPOs seeking adjustment against the 15 per cent quota must have completed a minimum of three years of service and possess the prescribed educational qualifications and physical standards. They will also be required to qualify the Physical Standard Test (PST).
However, merely completing the required service period will not be sufficient. The new rules stipulate that candidates must have demonstrated outstanding performance in counter-insurgency operations. Such performance must be duly recognized and approved by the competent authority before an SPO can be considered for induction into the regular police force.
Officials said the provision acknowledges the contribution of SPOs who have worked on the frontlines of anti-terror operations and have played a crucial role in maintaining security in the Union Territory.
The government has also carved out a five per cent quota for in-service followers already working in the police department. To be eligible for promotion as constables, followers must have completed at least five years of service, fulfil the prescribed educational and physical criteria, and successfully clear the PST.
While creating new opportunities for existing personnel, the administration has retained direct recruitment as the principal mode of induction into the constable cadre. As per the revised rules, 80 per cent of vacancies will continue to be filled through open recruitment, ensuring that employment opportunities remain available to aspiring youth across Jammu and Kashmir.
The notification was issued by Principal Secretary, Home Department, Chandraker Bharti, IAS, in the name of the Lieutenant Governor.
The decision is being seen as a significant step towards recognizing the service of SPOs and departmental staff while maintaining a balanced recruitment system that combines fresh induction with internal career advancement within the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
New Recruitment Structure at a Glance
* *80%* posts through direct recruitment
* *15%* posts reserved for eligible SPOs
* *5%* posts to be filled through promotion of in-service followers
Eligibility for SPOs
* Minimum three years of service/engagement
* Prescribed educational qualification
* Required physical standards
* PST qualification mandatory
* Outstanding performance in counter-insurgency operations
* Approval by competent authority
Eligibility for In-Service Followers
* Minimum five years of service
* Prescribed educational qualification
* Required physical standards
* PST qualification mandatory