Who is Pronab Mohanty IPS : Karnataka’s DGP Leading High-Profile Investigations
Sunday, July 20, 2025
Bengaluru, July 20, 2025: Pronab Mohanty, a 1994-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has emerged as a pivotal figure in Karnataka’s law enforcement, recently appointed to head the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the high-profile Dharmasthala mass burial case. Known for his meticulous approach and extensive experience, Mohanty’s career spans decades of service in key roles across the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Lokayukta, and Karnataka’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Promoted to Director General of Police (DGP) in June 2024, he continues to shape the state’s policing landscape.
A Storied Career in Law Enforcement
Pronab Mohanty’s illustrious career in the Indian Police Service (IPS) commenced in 1994, a journey characterized by substantial contributions to the realm of law enforcement. Throughout his tenure, he gained invaluable experience serving with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for an impressive seven-year period. Upon his return to Karnataka, Mohanty occupied pivotal roles within the state's security apparatus, including stints at the Lokayukta, Bengaluru Police Commissionerate, and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
Also Read| Timeline of Dharmasthala case From Whistleblower to Women’s Commission’s SIT Plea
In 2016, his expertise was recognized with a central deputation to the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) in Bengaluru, where he held the rank of Deputy Director General (DDG). However, this phase of his career was unfortunately clouded by controversy stemming from the unfortunate suicide case of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) M K Ganapathi.
Demonstrating remarkable resilience in the face of adversity, Mohanty's unwavering commitment and investigative acumen eventually saw him ascend to the position of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP). His career trajectory continued to ascend, culminating in his appointment as the Director General of Police (DGP), where he presided over the vital Police Computer Wing and Cybercrime and Narcotics division, showcasing his adeptness in handling complex and sensitive matters with proficiency.
Also Read| SIT Formed to Investigate Missing Women, Murders in Dharmasthala Police Station limit
Mohanty's ascension to the post of Director General of Police (DGP) came after the retirement of his predecessor, senior IPS officer Kamal Pant, in June 2024. With his previous roles in the Police Computer Wing and CID now elevated to DGP level, his expertise is expected to play a crucial role in addressing the high-profile cases that Karnataka faces. His leadership is paramount in maintaining the state's law and order, particularly in the context of the significant challenges posed by these sensitive investigations.
Keywords: Pronab Mohanty, IPS officer, Karnataka DGP, Dharmasthala case, SIT investigation, Indian Police Service, CBI, Lokayukta, Cybercrime, Karnataka Police
Also Read| Timeline of Dharmasthala case From Whistleblower to Women’s Commission’s SIT Plea
In 2016, his expertise was recognized with a central deputation to the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) in Bengaluru, where he held the rank of Deputy Director General (DDG). However, this phase of his career was unfortunately clouded by controversy stemming from the unfortunate suicide case of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) M K Ganapathi.
Demonstrating remarkable resilience in the face of adversity, Mohanty's unwavering commitment and investigative acumen eventually saw him ascend to the position of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP). His career trajectory continued to ascend, culminating in his appointment as the Director General of Police (DGP), where he presided over the vital Police Computer Wing and Cybercrime and Narcotics division, showcasing his adeptness in handling complex and sensitive matters with proficiency.
Also Read| SIT Formed to Investigate Missing Women, Murders in Dharmasthala Police Station limit
Leading the Dharmasthala Investigation
On July 20, 2025, the Karnataka govt appointed IPS officer Mohanty as the head of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the mass burial case in Dharmasthala police station limit. This decision has been met with widespread approval, as evidenced by the positive response on social media platform X, with users commending Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for his choice. The public's faith in Mohanty stems from his established history of effectively managing intricate cases, which has earned him a reputation as a reliable and tenacious investigator. His appointment is anticipated to shed light on the sensitive matter, further solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the state's law enforcement.Mohanty's ascension to the post of Director General of Police (DGP) came after the retirement of his predecessor, senior IPS officer Kamal Pant, in June 2024. With his previous roles in the Police Computer Wing and CID now elevated to DGP level, his expertise is expected to play a crucial role in addressing the high-profile cases that Karnataka faces. His leadership is paramount in maintaining the state's law and order, particularly in the context of the significant challenges posed by these sensitive investigations.
Keywords: Pronab Mohanty, IPS officer, Karnataka DGP, Dharmasthala case, SIT investigation, Indian Police Service, CBI, Lokayukta, Cybercrime, Karnataka Police