Section 6 of the Delhi Police Act, 1978 - Commissioner of Police

Section 6 provides the statutory basis for appointing the Commissioner of Police to direct and supervise the Delhi police force. It identifies the appointing authority and ties the Commissioner's powers, duties and functions to the Act.

Text of Section 6 - Commissioner of Police

Meaning and legal effect of Section 6

Who appoints the Commissioner of Police?

The Administrator appoints the Commissioner of Police under Section 6. Section 2(a) defines "Administrator" as the Administrator of Delhi appointed under Article 239 of the Constitution. In Delhi's constitutional framework, this office is the Lieutenant Governor. Section 6 does not itself prescribe a fixed term, qualifications or a detailed selection procedure.

What is the Commissioner's statutory role?

The Commissioner is appointed for the direction and supervision of the Delhi police force. The phrase refers to the leadership and oversight of the force, subject to the Act and other applicable laws. The section does not give an unrestricted power to act: particular powers and functions must be found in the Act or instruments validly made under it.

How does Section 6 relate to police superintendence?

Section 4 vests superintendence of the Delhi police in the Administrator. Section 6 provides for the Commissioner who directs and supervises the force within that statutory structure. These provisions should be read together, rather than treating the Commissioner's supervision as independent of the Administrator's superintendence.

Related provisions of the Delhi Police Act

Section 2 defines terms including "Administrator" and "competent authority"; the latter may include the Commissioner appointed under Section 6. Section 3 establishes one police force for Delhi. Section 5 deals with the organisation of that force and service conditions.

Section 7 concerns Additional Commissioners of Police, while Section 8 concerns other senior commissioner ranks. Section 15 separately addresses the Commissioner's general powers. The scope of any specific power depends on its enabling provision and applicable rules, orders or notifications.

Frequently asked questions

Does Section 6 establish the office of Commissioner of Police?

Yes. It requires the Administrator to appoint a Commissioner of Police for direction and supervision of the police force in Delhi.

Does Section 6 list every power of the Commissioner?

No. It states that the Commissioner exercises powers and performs duties and functions specified by or under the Delhi Police Act, 1978. Other provisions must be consulted for particular powers.

Is the Commissioner of Police the same as the Administrator?

No. Section 2(a) defines the Administrator, while Section 6 provides for a separate Commissioner of Police appointed by the Administrator.