The Union Government has extended the tenure of Praveen Sood as Director of the Central Bureaof Investigation by one year beyond May 24, 2026. This marks his second extension in office. The decision was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) based on the recommendation of a high-level selection committee.
Selection Committee for CBI Director
The decision regarding the extension was taken after a meeting of the selection committee headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The committee also included Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi.
Background of Praveen Sood
Praveen Sood is a 1986-batch IPS officer of the Karnataka cadre. Before becoming CBI Director in May 2023, he served as the Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG&IGP) of Karnataka. He has also worked as Police Commissioner of Bengalurand Mysuru.
Legal Provisions Related to CBI Director’s Tenure
The tenure and appointment of the CBI Director are governed by the Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, 1946. The Director is appointed for a fixed term of two years, which can be extended annually for up to three additional years under amendments introduced in 2021.
About the Central Bureaof Investigation (CBI)
The Central Bureaof Investigation is India’s premier central investigative agency established in 1963. It functions under the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions. The agency investigates cases related to corruption, economic offences, major crimes, and special crimes of national importance.
Appointment Process of CBI Director
The CBI Director is appointed by a committee comprising:
Prime Minister – Chairperson
Chief Justice of India (or nominated Supreme Court judge)
Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha
Maximum Tenure
Initial tenure: 2 years
Extension possible: Up to 3 additional years (1 year at a time)
UPSC - 2027 - Prelims cum Mains - Foundation Course / Batch Starts on 14-05-2026 
