Former DGP of erstwhile united Andhra Pradesh, H.J. Dora.
| Photo Credit: DEEPAK KR
Former Director General of Police (DGP) of undivided Andhra Pradesh, Hanumantu Jyothi Dora, popularly known as H.J. Dora, passed away on Friday while undergoing treatment at NIMS Hospital.
He was 83. Dora served as DGP from November 30, 1996, to February 18, 2002, and is survived by his wife and two children. His last rites will be performed on Saturday after his daughter arrives from London.
Born in Srikakulam district in 1943, Dora earned a Master’s degree in Economics from Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, before joining the Indian Police Service in 1965. He trained at the Police Academy in Mount Abu, which was later shifted to Hyderabad as the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy.
His early postings included stint as Deputy Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) in Hyderabad and Superintendent of Police for Krishna District. He also served with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), handling inter‑State and economic offences. These assignments honed his skills in policing and investigations, laying the foundation for his later leadership roles.
Dora’s career peaked when he headed the intelligence wing and was later elevated as DGP during the height of the People’s War Group (PWG) naxalite movement in North Telangana. His tenure marked a strategic shift toward intelligence‑driven policing. Under his leadership, the elite Greyhounds force neutralized several top naxalite leaders and secured the surrender of over 1,200 cadres between 1998 and 2001.
Telangana DGP B. Shivadhar Reddy termed Dora’s demise a great loss to the police force, recalling his encouragement to young officers and his concern for the welfare of men and their families. Late Dora as the DIG of Warangal Range was instrumental in forming the Police Kala Brundam to counter similar squads of the banned PWG in the affected areas.
In 2002, Dora was deputed to New Delhi as Director General of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). He later served as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission.
Colleagues hailed him as a man of discipline, vision, and strategy who left an enduring imprint on policing in Andhra Pradesh. His leadership in counter‑insurgency, commitment to reforms, and dedication to public service continue to inspire generations of officers and citizens.
Dora penned three books: Journey Through Turbulent Times (2019), NTR Tho Nenu (2011), and Impact of Training on the Performance of IPS Officers (2012). A lifelong devotee of Sathya Sai Baba, his association began in 1966. Post‑retirement, he served as convenor of the Sri Sathya Sai Trust for Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy expressed deep sorrow over Dora’s demise, recalling his invaluable services as Intelligence Chief and DGP. The CM highlighted Dora’s efforts to introduce reforms in the police department, particularly in promoting friendly policing.
Published – March 13, 2026 06:42 pm IST
