Assam IPS officer Parthasarathi Mahanta has been selected for the Union Home Minister's Medal for Excellence in Investigation 2026, recognising his contribution to several major operations against terrorism, extremist networks and drug trafficking. Mahanta, who played a key role in the arrest of suspected ISIS India chief Haris Ajmal Farooqi, is among 19 personnel from Assam Police selected for the honour.
Currently serving as the Guwahati Police Commissioner and Inspector General of the Special Task Force (STF), Assam Police, Mahanta has led several important operations since the STF was restructured in March 2023.
Between March 2023 and December 2024, STF operations resulted in the arrest of 21 individuals suspected of having links with various extremist organisations. These included suspected members of jihadist groups, Maoist organisations, the United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) and several insurgent groups operating in Manipur.
One of the most significant operations took place in March 2024, when STF personnel arrested Haris Ajmal Farooqi, a suspected ISIS operative believed to be heading the organisation's India operations, along with his associate Anurag Singh, from Dhubri district. The STF also investigated the network of Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT) and suspected sleeper cells operating in Assam.
Major Crackdown on Drug Trafficking
Apart from counterterrorism operations, Mahanta's team also conducted extensive investigations against drug trafficking networks.
Between March 2023 and December 2024, the STF seized more than 59 kg of heroin, 9.67 lakh psychotropic tablets, 37,000 bottles of banned Phensedyl, nearly four tonnes of cannabis, 37.26 kg of opium and one kg of methamphetamine.
During this period, the force conducted 254 operations, registered 41 cases and arrested 482 people.
Mahanta was also associated with an investigation named Operation Ghost SIM, which uncovered a network involved in collecting and using fraudulent SIM cards. Investigators suspected that the network had links with handlers based in Pakistan.
A Police Officer With an Interest in Cinema
Beyond policing, Mahanta has also developed an interest in filmmaking and literature. His documentary, Hargila: The Greater Adjutant Stork, received a special mention at the National Film Awards.
He was also associated with the animated film Lachit: The Warrior, based on the life of legendary Ahom general Lachit Borphukan. The film was screened at several film festivals.
Mahanta was previously honoured with a President's Police Medal in 2025. His selection for the 2026 Union Home Minister's Medal adds another recognition to his career.
The list of awardees was announced on October 31, marking the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. A total of 490 personnel from different states, Union Territories and central forces have been selected for this year's honour.
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