The Himachal Pradesh government has appointed Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shivani Mehla as the new Superintendent of Police (SP) for Lahaul-Spiti, marking a significant step in the district’s administrative leadership. The decision, based on recommendations from the Civil Services Board, was formalized through a notification issued on Wednesday, August 13, 2025. This move follows the temporary assignment of DSP Headquarters Kaza, Rashmi Sharma, to the SP role during SP Ilma Afroze’s study leave, with Sharma now relieved of additional duties.

Appointment Details

ASP Shivani Mehla, a 2020-batch IPS officer from Kaithal, Haryana, has been elevated to the SP position in Lahaul-Spiti. Prior to this, she served as DSP in Sirmaur and Rampur (Shimla district), before her recent posting as ASP in Chamba.

The transition comes after DSP Rashmi Sharma was temporarily tasked with the SP role during Ilma Afroze’s study leave. With Mehla’s appointment, Sharma has been relieved of the additional charge, ensuring a focused leadership structure.

Empowering Women in Leadership

Notably, the Himachal Pradesh government has prioritized women officers for key positions in Lahaul-Spiti, with Shivani Mehla’s appointment reinforcing this trend. The district already boasts female leadership in roles such as Deputy Commissioner (DC), Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), and other critical posts, showcasing a commitment to gender diversity in governance.

Significance for Lahaul-Spiti

This appointment is timely as Lahaul-Spiti, known for its challenging terrain and seasonal isolation, requires robust administrative oversight. Mehla’s experience in diverse districts like Sirmaur, Rampur, and Chamba equips her to address the region’s unique law enforcement needs, especially during the monsoon season when connectivity and safety are critical.