Historic All-Women Police Contingent Leads Republic Day Parade in Jhansi
In a powerful departure from tradition, the Republic Day celebrations in Jhansi witnessed a groundbreaking moment as an all-women police contingent led the ceremonial parade for the very first time. This historic event unfolded on the symbolic soil associated with Rani Lakshmibai, transforming what was once considered an exclusive male domain into a vibrant display of women's leadership and capability.
Perfect Synchrony and Emotional Significance
At the Police Lines parade ground, 253 women police personnel marched with impeccable precision and synchrony, creating a deeply emotional and powerful statement about courage, transformation, and the evolving role of women within the Uttar Pradesh Police force. The 77th Republic Day celebrations were marked by both grandeur and profound symbolism as Chairman of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council Kunwar Manvendra Pratap Singh unfurled the national flag and took the ceremonial salute.
The historic parade was meticulously organized under the expert guidance of Inspector General of Police, Jhansi Range, Akash Kulhary, and under the direct supervision of Senior Superintendent of Police, Jhansi, BBGTS Murthy. The contingent consisted of 240 women constables, 10 troop commanders, and three parade commanders who had dedicated weeks of rigorous training to master the demanding ceremonial drill—a domain traditionally dominated by male contingents.
Personal Reflections and Breaking Barriers
For many of the women participating in this landmark parade, the moment carried profound personal significance. "Parade command was once seen as a male bastion. Standing here today, leading and marching with confidence, shows how far women in the police have come," shared one emotional woman officer after the march. "This wasn't just about drill. It was about proving to ourselves and to society that women can shoulder responsibility with the same discipline and authority."
The parade leadership was spearheaded by CO Tahrauli Asma Waqar serving as the first parade commander, with Sub-Inspectors Kiran Rawat and Neelesh Kumari providing crucial support as second and third parade commanders respectively. Ten women contingents dressed in full ceremonial attire offered a solemn salute to the tricolour, followed by a perfectly synchronized ceremonial firing that drew thunderous applause from the captivated audience.
Expanding Operational Roles Beyond Symbolism
The march-past featured an impressive array of specialized units that highlighted the expanding operational footprint of women in policing beyond purely symbolic roles. The display included:
- Mission Shakti vehicle squads
- UP-112 emergency response units
- Fire Services personnel
- Radio Branch teams
- Specialized Dog Squad
- SWAT team members
- Women power mobile units
- Motorcycle squads
Recognition of Service and Sacrifice
The occasion also served as a platform to recognize exceptional service and sacrifice within the police force. Several police personnel received well-deserved medals and commendation certificates for their exemplary service, outstanding crime control efforts, and exceptional emergency response performance. A PRV-112 team received special felicitation for maintaining exceptional response standards that have saved numerous lives.
Community Response and Official Presence
As schoolchildren, families, and senior citizens watched from the stands—many capturing the historic moment on their mobile phones—the atmosphere was charged with palpable pride and thoughtful reflection. "Seeing women command the parade on Republic Day is something we never imagined a decade ago," remarked a retired police official in attendance, capturing the sentiment of many observers.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of distinguished senior officials including Divisional Commissioner Bimal Kumar Dubey, District Magistrate Mridul Chaudhary, and numerous top police officers. The event was conducted by noted educationist and President's Award recipient Neeti Shastri, adding further prestige to the proceedings.
While Republic Day was celebrated across all police stations and offices throughout the district, it was undoubtedly the women-led parade in Jhansi that stood out most prominently—quietly, firmly, and memorably redefining tradition while inspiring future generations of women in uniform.
