Background
KPS Gill began his career as a police officer in the north-eastern state of Assam, quickly earning a reputation as a tough officer. He became a household name across the country as Punjab police chief in the early 1990s, when he was credited with crushing a separatist revolt in the Sikh-majority state.
Widely praised as a one-man army and widely feared by criminals across the country, Mr Gill was dubbed "Super Cop" after his success in Punjab. Years after retiring from government job, Mr Gill's anti-terrorism skills are back in great demand. He publishes the Faultlines journal and runs the Institute for Conflict Management, as well as advising governments and institutions on security related issues. He was asked by the government of Sri Lanka last year for similar advice. Mr Gill has also written a book, "The Knights of Falsehood", which explores the abuse of religious institutions by the politics of terrorism in Punjab.
Mr. Gill is a well known authority on counter terrorism advising governments and instituions on wide ranging security and counter insurgency issues.
Criticism
Accountability
Critics have dismissed Mr Gill's appointment as a mere symbolism. They say his role has not been clearly defined and as the state government's adviser he will not have any real authority to execute his own plans. The main opposition Congress Party has even demanded to know exactly to whom he will be accountable. Mr Gill himself, however, has dismissed any such doubts and says he has the support of the state government. He has described the situation in Gujarat as "very bad" and has given himself a month for a full assessment of the situation.