Dr. M A Saleem IPS

Director General of Police, CID Karnataka

About Dr. M A SALEEM IPS

Dr. M. A. Saleem’s illustrious career in the Indian Police Service (IPS) began in 1993, following his selection through the All India Civil Service Examination. His tenure with the Karnataka State Police has been marked by versatility and excellence, serving in 26 various capacities across the state. His roles have ranged from Superintendent of Police in districts like Udupi and Hassan to more senior positions such as Inspector General of Police, Eastern Range, Commissioner of Police in Mysore City and Special Commissioner of Police in Bengaluru.

He has headed Anti-Corruption Bureau, Crime and Administration wings of Karnataka State Police. Currently, he holds the esteemed position of Director General of Police, Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Karnataka, where important and sensational cases get investigated.

Experience

Director General of Police, Criminal Investigation Department, Economic Offences and Special Units- May 2023 to till date

Dr. M. A. Saleem IPS, presently serving as Director General of Police, CID Karnataka, since June 2023. Under his leadership, the pending case backlog was reduced from 930 to 360 cases, and he supervised multiple Special Investigation Teams handling high- profile cases, including cryptocurrency hacking, police recruitment scams, sexual harassment, and corruption investigations. He established a new division for cybercrime and narcotics and introduced the Deposit Fraud Investigation Division (DFID) and Criminal Intelligence Unit (CIU).

Dr Saleem took special interest in enhancing the operations at the Centre for Cyber Crime Investigation, Training, and Research Centre (CCITR). Through CCITR, over 6,200 professionals received cyber security training, including police officers, judicial officers, and public prosecutors. His tenure has also seen the publication of technical papers on digital forensics, the organization of a National Seminar on Cybercrime Investigation in March 2024, and the implementation of a new system for monitoring undertrial cases to improve conviction rates.

Special Commissioner of Police, Traffic, Bengaluru City-November 2022- May 2023

As Special Commissioner of Police, Traffic, Bengaluru City, Dr. M. A. Saleem implemented transformative measures to address the city’s traffic challenges. Through scientific analysis, he successfully reduced congestion at nine high-density junctions and deployed an Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) at 50 critical junctions equipped with automated enforcement cameras.

Under his leadership, the traffic police achieved 97% contactless enforcement, booking approximately 20,000 violations daily. His initiatives included resolving 50.23 lakh pending traffic violation cases through a rebate system, collecting ₹136.77 crores in fines, and booking 4,100 cases against footpath parking & riding violations. These measures significantly improved traffic flow and enforcement efficiency throughout Bengaluru City.

Additional Director General of Police, Administration- August 2019 to October 2022

As Additional Director General of Police Administration, Dr. M. A. Saleem implemented crucial administrative reforms in the Karnataka Police. His achievements include reducing promotional vacancies to zero, ensuring timely publication of gradation lists, and optimizing the police budget for 2021-22. As Secretary of the Police Establishment Board, he established transparent transfer and posting processes. He restructured police stations, ensuring minimum staffing of two Police Sub-Inspectors per station and upgrading 139 stations to have Police Inspectors. Dr. Saleem also oversaw the construction of 10,034 residential quarters for police personnel.

Another notable achievement during Dr. Saleem’s tenure was his effective handling of the COVID-19 pandemic across all police units and stations. He effectively managed the response within the police force through daily monitoring and resource allocation, demonstrating his commitment to administrative efficiency and personnel welfare.

Additional Director General of Police, Public Grievances and Human Rights- February 2021 to October 2022

As Additional Director General of Police, Police Grievances and Human Rights, Dr. M. A. Saleem significantly enhanced police welfare and human rights protection. He doubled the Arogya Bhagya health scheme’s annual government grants from ₹50 crores to ₹100 crores through consistent advocacy and follow-up with the government. He cleared all pending hospital bills, improving healthcare access for police personnel and their families.

He established a new Police Public School in Davanagere, and revitalised the one in Dharwad. To provide financial security for police personnel, secured insurance coverage for staff with salary accounts. As Member- Secretary of the Police Complaints Authority and in coordination with Human Rights Commissions, he ensured transparent investigations of police excesses. He upheld human rights standards, strengthening public trust in law enforcement.

Additional Director General of Police, Crime and Technical Services-January 2018 – July 2019

As Additional Director General of Police, Crime and Technical Services ,Dr. M. A. Saleem prioritised combating crimes against women and children by collaborating with various statutory commissions and developing a Standard Operating Procedure for POCSO Act
cases across Karnataka.

To combat economic offfences, he conducted specialized workshops for police officers investigating such crimes and established strong coordination with the CID, RBI, and Income Tax Department. During his tenure, a special narcotics drive and the Karnataka
Public Safety Act were implemented statewide, demonstrating his comprehensive approach to public safety and modern policing standards.

Inspector General of Police, Eastern Range, Davanagere-January 2017 – December 2017

As Inspector General of Police, Eastern Range, Davanagere, Dr M. A. Saleem maintained exemplary law and order while significantly improving police performance metrics. His supervision increased property crime detection rates from 40% to 75%, reduced road accidents by 10%, and doubled traffic enforcement cases from 3.14 lakh to 6.93 lakh. Under his leadership, accountability was strengthened through Range-level Acquittal Review Committee Meetings, leading to action against 76 officers for investigation lapses. His outstanding service was recognized with the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Services on Republic Day 2017.

Inspector General of Police, Anti-Corruption Bureau- March 2016- December 2016

As Inspector General of Police, Anti-Corruption Bureau, Dr. M. A. Saleem played a pivotal role in establishing Karnataka’s Anti-Corruption Bureau as its first in-charge Additional Director General of Police. He set up 30 ACB Police Stations across all districts and established the ACB Headquarters at Khanija Bhavan, Bengaluru. Under his leadership, 90% of staff positions were filled, and he supervised investigations of 153 cases under the Prevention of Corruption Act. He also strengthened the bureau’s capabilities by conducting specialized training courses at Karnataka Police Academy, effectively laying the foundation for a robust anti-corruption framework in the state.

Additional Commissioner of Police, Traffic, Bengaluru City – April -2015- March 2016

As Additional Commissioner of Police, Traffic, Bengaluru City, Dr. M. A. Saleem achieved a 20-year low in road accidents, reducing them from 5,004 in 2014 to 4,828 in 2015. His enforcement initiatives led to over 70 lakh cases being booked, collecting ₹70.44 crores in fines, with 30.66 lakh cases booked through automated systems. He established Traffic Advisory Committees across 43 Traffic Police Stations, launched citizen-centric mobile apps (Public-Eye and B-Safe), and implemented regular Citizen Forum Meetings. His tenure featured successful campaigns against drunk driving, enforcement of helmet rules for pillion riders, and promotion of lane discipline, combining technology, community engagement, and enforcement to enhance road safety.

Commissioner of Police, Commissioner of Police, Mysuru City- July 2013 to April 2015

Dr. M. A. Saleem maintained perfect communal harmony and successfully managed the iconic Dasara festival as Commissioner of Police Mysuru City. His tenure saw significant crime reduction, including a 60% decrease in chain-snatching and a 125% detection rate of stolen property. He launched the M-Trac project for traffic improvement, reducing fatal accidents from 141 to 96, and implemented a license suspension system for repeat offenders. His community initiatives included the ABHAYA programme for elderly citizens, Citizen Forum, Traffic Warden system, and the Civilian Rifle Association, demonstrating his comprehensive approach to law enforcement and community engagement.

Additional Commissioner of Police, Traffic, Bengaluru City- August 2011 to July 2013

As Additional Commissioner of Police, Traffic, Bengaluru, Dr. M. A. Saleem achieved record-low accident numbers, with total accidents reduced to 5,502 and fatalities to 755 in 2012-13. His enforcement efforts resulted in over 52 lakh cases being booked, collecting ₹53.85 crores in fines, with 16.24 lakh cases recorded through automated systems. He established Traffic Advisory Committees across 39 Traffic Police Stations, launched the Public-Eye program, and implemented regular Citizen Forum Meetings. His initiatives included campaigns against drunk driving, enforcement of seat belt rules, lane discipline improvements, prioritized ambulance movement, and the establishment of 14 pre-fixed autorickshaw stands, demonstrating his comprehensive approach to urban traffic management.

Inspector General of Police, Administration- March 2011 to July 2011

Dr. M. A. Saleem significantly improved the department’s human resource management by finalizing 17 provisional and final gradation lists, including the crucial Police Inspectors (Civil) list that hadn’t been updated since 1999. He successfully processed promotions for 257 officers from Inspector rank and above, demonstrating his commitment to administrative efficiency and career advancement within the Police Department.

Deputy Inspector General of Police, Headquarters – June 2010 – February 2011

Dr. M. A. Saleem managed statewide procurement and distribution of uniforms, kit articles, arms, and ammunition to all police units. He maintained departmental discipline through regular reviews of inquiries and provided prompt responses to staff appeals, enhancing force morale and operational efficiency. His exemplary service was previously recognized with the President’s Police Medal for Meritorious Services on Republic Day 2009.

Director, Security and Vigilance and Incharge Director Personnel and Environment, KSRTC- August 2007 to May 2010

As Head of Security and Vigilance and In-charge Director, Personnel and Environment for KSRTC, Dr. M. A. Saleem achieved record-breaking results, including the highest-ever profit of ₹57.70 crores and total revenues of₹1,635 crores in 2008-09. He detected over 56,000 pilferage cases, collecting ₹72.84 lakhs in penalties. His innovations included implementing the AVATAR Reservation System, establishing a Centralized Control Room, launching Parcel and Courier Services, and introducing third-party insurance for buses. He secured ₹38 crores from JNNURM for Mysore City’s transport infrastructure and supervised 340 employee conduct inquiries. His digital transformation efforts earned him the National Award for E- Governance from DoPT, Government of India.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, East Division, Bengaluru City-August 2003 to May 2007

As Deputy Commissioner of Police, Traffic East Division, Bengaluru City, Dr.M. A. Saleem transformed traffic management by converting 128 roads to one-way routes and conceptualizing the landmark BTRAC project. He established 29 Traffic Police Stations, introduced digital enforcement through Simputers, and launched several safety initiatives including the Safe Route to School Project, Auto Drivers Display System, and Traffic Children’s Park. He trained 614 officers at TTI, implemented the helmet rule, created health profiles for traffic police, and fostered community engagement through the Traffic Warden Organization and Students’ Association for Road Safety (SARS). His achievements earned him the IRTE Prince Michael International Award for Road Safety and the Rotary Excellence Award.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, East Division, Bengaluru City- July 2002 to July 2003

Dr. M. A. Saleem significantly improved public safety by detecting 15 professional dacoity cases, 10 firearm robbery cases, and 600 property offences, achieving a 25% reduction in property crimes. He notably supervised a high-profile case leading to the arrest of 11 Tamil extremists and seizure of explosives and arms at Frazer Town. He prepared a comprehensive reorganization plan for Bengaluru City Police and led the computerization of all criminal records, modernizing the force’s data management capabilities.

Superintendent of Police, Hassan District- July 2000 to July 2002

Dr. M. A. Saleem maintained peace during challenging situations including the Neera agitation and post-Godhra tensions. He achieved a 33% reduction in property offences (from 683 to 458 cases) and a record 60% detection rate in 2001. He solved three major dacoity cases and trained 600 civil policemen. His community policing initiatives included programs like ‘Spandana’ for women, ‘Aasare’ for the elderly, and ‘Sanjeevini’ quick reaction team. He also prioritized police welfare by establishing free SSLC coaching for officers’ children, training 76 police children for security jobs, opening a tailoring center for officers’ spouses, and founding the Police Consumer Co-Operative Society.

Superintendent of Police, Udupi District- July 1998 to June 2000

Maintained exemplary law and order through peaceful elections and achieved a 50% reduction in property offences in Udupi and Manipal. He successfully solved several sensational cases and achieved a 74% detection rate for stolen property, recovering ₹47.84 lakhs out of ₹64.18 lakhs stolen. His community policing initiatives including ‘Aasare,’ ‘Child Help Line,’ ‘Spandana,’ and ‘Domestic Servant Registration’ were recognized at an International Seminar. He also established an Armed Police Training School in Udupi, strengthening the district’s law enforcement capabilities.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Law and Order, Mysuru City- August 1997 to June 1998

Dr. M. A. Saleem exemplified outstanding public order and effectively orchestrated the renowned Dasara Festival. He initiated the “Night Hawk” program to address housebreaking, adeptly managed a tiger escape from Mysore Zoo without any injuries, enhanced the Mounted Police Unit with new horses, and obtained additional staffing approvals for the Mysuru City Police. His actions reflect strong leadership in both everyday operations and emergency situations.

Assistant Superintendent of Police, Sagar Sub Division – November 1996 to July 1997

As Assistant Superintendent of Police, Sagar Sub Division, Dr. M. A. Saleem conducted successful raids against timber smuggling, seizing forest products worth crores of rupees, and effectively eliminated Matka gambling through persistent preventive actions, demonstrating his commitment to both environmental protection and crime prevention.

Assistant Superintendent of Police, Kushalnagar Sub Division – November 1995 to November 1996

As the Assistant Superintendent of Police for the Kushalnagar Sub Division, Dr. M. A. Saleem upheld outstanding law and order while concentrating on the prevention of poaching and smuggling of forest products in the Malnad region. He emphasized the investigation of criminal cases to thwart professional crimes and successfully established a Police Parade Ground by acquiring land from the Municipal Council, showcasing his dedication to both environmental conservation and the enhancement of police infrastructure.

Additional Charges Held

– Commissioner for Traffic and Road Safety.
– Administrator, Karnataka State Board of Wakfs, Bangalore.
– Dy. Inspector General of Police, Administration, Bangalore
– Director (Personnel & Environment), KSRTC, Bangalore.
– Commandant, Karnataka Armed Reserve Police, Mounted Police, Mysore.

OTHER POSTS HELD

– Member Secretary, Police Establishment Board, Government of Karnataka.
– Member Secretary, Police Complaints Authority, Govt. of Karnataka.
– Supervisory Officer for the following important Special Investigation Teams (SIT) formed to investigate sensational and grave criminal cases.

1) Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed to investigate IMA fraud cases wherein 74000 people were cheated.
2) Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed to investigate multi-crore cryptocurrency hacking cases.
3) Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed to investigate Hassan multi-sexual harassment cases.
4) Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed to investigate misappropriation of 94 crores at Karnataka Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation Limited.
5) Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed to enquire into Police Sub-Inspector Recruitment Scam.
6) Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to investigate sexual harassment and extortion against an MLA.

– Member Micro Mission 3 and 5 of National Police Mission (NPM), BPR&D.
– Special Invitee, Indian Institute of Public Administration, Karnataka Regional Branch.
– Chairman of Implementation committee for the new criminal laws in police departments.
– Chairman, Centre for Cybercrime Investigation Training &Research (CCITR), CID HQ, Bengaluru