Bengaluru: Ahead of International Women’s Day, the city police organised a special “Women’s Monthly Parade” at the CAR Central Parade Ground on Friday, highlighting the growing role, strength and achievements of women in the police force. The event brought together women officers from different wings of the Bengaluru City Police and served as a platform to recognise their contributions to law enforcement and public safety.
The parade formed part of the police department’s initiatives to encourage gender equality in policing and to celebrate the dedication and professionalism of women personnel who serve across various ranks in the force.
Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh attended the event and received the ceremonial guard of honour from an all-women contingent, marking a significant moment during the programme.
Parade led by women officers
The special parade was commanded by Mohammed Sujitha MS, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) of the South-East Division. The role of Assistant Parade Commander was performed by Reena Suvarna, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) of the Whitefield Sub-Division.
Both officers led the women contingents during the ceremonial march, which showcased discipline, coordination and the professional training of women personnel in the police force.
Participants included women officers and staff from different units of the Bengaluru City Police. The parade was organised in accordance with standard ceremonial protocols followed by the department.
Officials said the event symbolised the progress made in increasing the representation of women within policing and recognised the dedication of officers who serve in challenging roles ranging from law enforcement and traffic regulation to crime investigation and public order duties.
Self-defence demonstration by Rani Chennamma Squad
Following the parade, a special demonstration was conducted by the “Rani Chennamma Squad”, a women’s police team trained in self-defence and martial arts techniques.
During the demonstration, squad members showcased a series of karate-based self-defence moves designed to handle physical confrontations and emergency situations. The performance included breaking tiles with their fists and smashing earthen pots placed nearly eight feet high using powerful kicks.
The display drew loud applause from the audience and highlighted the physical training and combat preparedness of women officers in the police force.
Police officials said such demonstrations are intended to promote confidence among women personnel and also inspire members of the public, particularly women and girls, to learn self-defence techniques.
Support for women auto drivers under Parihar initiative
Another highlight of the event was the display of around 100 autorickshaws provided to women drivers as part of the “Parihar” initiative.
The programme aims to support women’s economic independence by enabling them to work as professional auto drivers in the city. The autorickshaws were lined up at the parade ground as part of the event.
Many of the women auto drivers attended the programme wearing uniforms, which became one of the key attractions of the event. The initiative is intended to encourage women to participate in the transport sector and create safer mobility options in the city.
Police officials noted that empowering women through employment opportunities is an important step towards strengthening community safety and promoting gender equality.
Recognition for women officers
During the programme, Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh extended Women’s Day greetings to all women officers and staff present at the event.
He also presented commendation certificates to 60 women officers and personnel in recognition of their distinguished service and dedication to duty. The awards were given to officers who had performed notable work in their respective assignments.
Officials said such recognition motivates personnel and encourages continued excellence in service.
Growing role of women in policing
Over the years, the presence of women in the police force has steadily increased, with officers now serving in various roles including investigation, cybercrime, traffic management, law and order duties, and specialised units.
Senior police officials said initiatives such as the Women’s Monthly Parade are designed to acknowledge the contributions of women personnel and encourage more women to join the force.
Events organised ahead of International Women’s Day also help highlight the importance of creating inclusive workplaces where women can contribute effectively to public service.
Conclusion
The Women’s Monthly Parade held in Bengaluru served as both a ceremonial celebration and a recognition of the important role played by women in policing. From leading the parade to demonstrating self-defence skills and receiving commendations, the event reflected the growing prominence of women officers within the city police.
As Bengaluru prepares to observe International Women’s Day, the programme stood as a reminder of the dedication, courage and professionalism of women who work to ensure the safety and security of the city.