Assistant superintendent, or assistant superintendent of police (ASP), is a rank that was used by police forces in the British Empire and is still used in many police forces in the Commonwealth. It was usually the lowest rank that could be held by a European officer, most of whom joined the police at this rank. In the 20th century, it was in many territories opened to non-Europeans as well.

India

Assistant superintendent of police (ASP) is an entry-level rank in the Indian Police Service (IPS). Officers at this rank are either undergoing training or serving in the field during the early years of their service. The ASP is equivalent in rank to a deputy superintendent of police (Dy.SP) in the state police services. Typically assigned to subdivisions within districts, ASPs are responsible for maintaining law and order, supervising police stations, and leading investigations. The first posting is usually as the station house officer (SHO) of a police station, followed by assignment to a police sub-division as the sub-divisional police officer (SDPO). Selected through the Civil Services Examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), IPS officers are trained at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad before taking up ASP roles. Assistant superintendent of police is a probationary rank for the first year and is held by officers when under training at SVPNPA.

The Bahamas

In the Royal Bahamas Police this rank is above inspector and below superintendent. An ASP wears three bath stars or pips on the shoulder.

Bangladesh

One-third of assistant superintendent of police (ASP) positions are filled by promotion from inspector. The remaining two-thirds are recruited through competitive Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) written and oral examinations. Applicants are required to have a four-year degree or equivalent. Recruits undergo a year-long training course at the Bangladesh Police Academy as probationary ASPs. After passing out from the academy, they serve six months on field attachment.

References

  • Police ranks in Maharashtra, India
  • Police ranks in Brunei