The coming Republic Day parade on January 26 will be a historic event, as the Delhi Police’s all-women contingent will march along the Kartavya Path for the first time. The initiative aims to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment within the force, an officer said.
The all-women contingent, led by IPS officer Shweta K. Sugathan, will consist of 194 female head constables and constables in total. Every day, the dedicated group practices diligently on the Kartyava Path, preparing to create a lasting impression at the parade.
This unprecedented contingent represents a big step towards mending the divide between the Delhi Police and the people of the north-eastern states. A stunning 80 per cent of the participants of this all-women contingent are from these states, highlighting a policy targeted at strengthening ties between the force and these regions.
This is the second year in a row that Sugathan will lead the Delhi Police’s marching contingent at the Republic Day parade. Last year, she became the second woman officer to lead the Delhi Police marching contingent, after Kiran Bedi in 1975. She is currently posted as an additional deputy commissioner of Police-2 (north).
Special Commissioner of Police (Armed Police) Robin Hibu expressed satisfaction with this historic event, emphasising the enthusiasm of the chosen members. He emphasized that their involvement demonstrates the representation of persons from Northeastern states in the Delhi Police. “The marching contingent has been selected from the armed unit of our force and a majority of them are from the northeastern states,” Hibu said.
In addition to this large representation, Constable Ruyangunuo Kense will lead the women’s pipe band, which will include 135 head constables and constables. This historic event represents a considerable increase in female participation, as last year’s band was directed by a male inspector.
The all-female troop will surely be the centre point of the parade, symbolising a watershed moment for gender inclusion and visibility. This historic step follows the Defence Ministry’s instruction to allow female participants from various forces and departments in the Republic Day parade.
The Delhi Police’s marching contingent has a long history of participating in every Republic Day celebration since India became a republic in 1950. Their motto, “Shanti, Seva aur Nyaya” (Peace, Service, and Justice), represents their dedication to the nation. Having been named the greatest marching contingent 15 times, their addition of an all-female group this year demonstrates their dedication to growth and inclusivity.
“All the participants are very excited, as they will become the first-ever all-women marching contingent during the Republic Day parade in India,” said Special Commissioner of Police (armed police) Robin Hibu.