Praveen Vashista, a former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Bihar cadre, has been appointed as the Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC). Vashista was sworn in on Friday, January 16, 2026, before the Central Vigilance Commissioner, who was authorized by the President of India, in accordance with Section 5(3) of the CVC Act, 2003. The warrant for his appointment was issued by the President on December 12, 2025, under Section 4(1) of the Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003.
Vashista is a 1991 batch IPS officer. He brings to the role over three decades of experience in policing, investigation, crisis response, security management, and internal security. Before this appointment, Vashista served as special secretary (internal security) in the Union home ministry. He also held key positions in the Ministry of Home Affairs, including Joint Secretary, Additional Secretary, and Officer on Special Duty (OSD). His contributions included policy formulation and implementation related to internal security.
During his career in Bihar, Vashista served as Inspector General of Police in the Economic Offences Wing and Criminal Investigation Department. He also served as Superintendent of Police in several sensitive districts, including Ranchi, Dumka, and Garhwa, where he was responsible for maintaining law and order. Additionally, he has served in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) as Superintendent of Police and Deputy Inspector General.
The CVC comprises a Central Vigilance Commissioner and two Vigilance Commissioners. The Vigilance Commissioner holds the office for a tenure of four years or until they reach the age of 65, whichever comes first.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Enforcement Directorate (ED), and the Central Vigilance Commission. Vashista's extensive experience is expected to enhance the integrity, vigilance, and oversight framework of the Central Vigilance Commission.
