Why Tapan Deka is set to have longest tenure as IB chief in over 30 years

In a significant move reflecting the government’s trust in seasoned leadership during challenging times, Tapan Kumar Deka has been granted a one-year extension as the Director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), taking his tenure through June 2026. This makes him the longest-serving IB chief in more than three decades, a rare feat in India’s top intelligence circles.

A Veteran of National Security

An Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the 1988 batch of the Himachal Pradesh cadre, Deka’s career spans decades of intelligence and counter-terrorism work. He took over as the IB chief on July 1, 2022, at a time when India’s internal and cross-border threats required measured and experienced handling.

Before taking on the top role, Deka was already a powerful figure within the agency. Known for his low profile but high-impact leadership, he played crucial roles in investigations and operations involving terrorist threats, separatist movements, and intelligence gathering.

Unmatched Field Experience

What sets Deka apart is his deep on-ground intelligence experience. He has reportedly been a key figure in several high-stakes operations, including:

  • Tracking and neutralizing terror networks in Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast.
  • Crucial involvement in the Balakot air strike intelligence planning, following the Pulwama attack.
  • The arrest of Yasin Bhatkal, one of India’s most wanted terrorists and the founder of the Indian Mujahideen.

This hands-on experience in counter-terrorism has earned him immense credibility within the security establishment.

Government’s Vote of Confidence

By granting Deka a second one-year extension, the government has signaled both stability and trust. Typically, the tenure of the IB chief is two years, as formalized in 2005. However, this extension brings Deka’s term to four full years, something not seen since the early 1990s.

The move comes amidst a politically sensitive and security-intensive period. With rising global terrorism threats, cyber intelligence challenges, and regional instability, having a steady and experienced hand at the helm of IB is seen as a strategic necessity.

What This Means for India’s Security

Deka’s extended term ensures continuity in intelligence operations and gives the government a reliable figure to coordinate with in handling internal security. His presence also helps maintain institutional memory—crucial for dealing with evolving threats and inter-agency coordination.

It also sends a strong signal to adversaries: India’s intelligence leadership is not only stable but also rooted in field expertise and strategic vision.

A Legacy in the Making

Tapan Deka’s leadership has already marked a transformative phase in the functioning of the IB. By the time he finishes his tenure in 2026, he will have become one of the most influential intelligence leaders in modern Indian history. His journey from a discreet operator to the longest-serving IB chief reflects both his competence and the state’s reliance on proven leadership amid uncertainty.