Decorated Police Officer SSP Mohan Lal Bhagat Resigns, Set to Join BJP for Upcoming Assembly Elections

From Khaki to Politics: Mohan Lal Bhagat Poised to Shake Up Akhnoor Assembly Race

• SSP Mohan Lal Bhagat, a highly decorated 1999 batch JKPS officer, has submitted his resignation to the Home Department, signalling his intention to enter politics.
•  Sources indicate that Bhagat is likely to join the BJP and contest the upcoming assembly elections from the SC reserved Akhnoor constituency.
•  Bhagat, known for his distinguished career in policing and his strong connect with the people, is seen as a strong contender who could bolster the BJP’s position in the elections.
•  His influence across multiple districts and his popularity among various communities make him a potential asset for the BJP in garnering votes, particularly from the Scheduled Caste population.

jj correspondent
Jammu, Aug 08: As Jammu and Kashmir gears up for upcoming assembly elections, political activity is intensifying, with prominent figures joining the fray. In a significant development, sources have revealed that highly decorated police officer SSP Mohan Lal Bhagat, a 1999 batch JKPS officer, has submitted his resignation to the Home Department, paving the way for his entry into politics.
Sources indicate that Bhagat has been in close contact with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership for a considerable period. His active participation in social and religious events within his constituency further strengthens speculation that the BJP might field him from the SC reserved Akhnoor assembly constituency. With two years remaining in his service, Bhagat has opted for voluntary retirement, signalling his commitment to pursuing a political career.
Mohan Lal Bhagat hails from the Bhagat community, the second largest in the Akhnoor assembly constituency. He enjoys widespread support not only within his community but also across other communities, thanks to his approachable nature and his dedication to serving the people of his area.
If fielded by the BJP, Mohan Lal Bhagat could be a formidable candidate in the upcoming elections. His influence extends beyond Akhnoor, reaching across Jammu district, Ramban, Doda, Reasi, Kathua, Udhampur, and Rajouri. This widespread support, especially among the Scheduled Caste communities, could significantly benefit the BJP in garnering votes across multiple districts.
A Distinguished Career in Service
A resident of Gurha Jagir Panchayat in Akhnoor, Mohan Lal Bhagat joined the JKPS in 1999 after completing his MSc in Botany. His illustrious career includes key positions such as DSP Operations in Baramulla, Kashmir, SP Operations in Doda, SP Rural in Jammu, SP Katra in Reasi, District SSP in both Kathua and Ramban, SSP Traffic City Jammu, Commandant of IRP 10th Battalion, Commandant of JKAP-7th Battalion, Deputy Director (Training/Indoor) at SKPA, Udhampur, and currently, SO to ADGP Railways.
Mohan Lal Bhagat is a highly decorated officer, receiving numerous accolades for his service and bravery, including the Police Medal for Gallantry (2002 and 2010), Shaurya Chakra (Wound Medal) in 2008, DGP’s Commendation Certificate in 2012, Police Medal for Meritorious Services in 2020, and the prestigious Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in Training for 2021-22. He was also conferred the Nelson Mandela Peace Award-2022 for his contributions to peace building and social welfare, as well as an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Good Governance and Social Welfare from St. Mother Theresa University.
The BJP recognizes Mohan Lal Bhagat’s experience, leadership qualities, and strong connect with the people as valuable assets that could bolster their position in the upcoming elections. His potential candidacy has generated significant interest and speculation within political circles.