‘Undercover’ in garba: How Gujarat women cops are keeping eye out for trouble
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Brendan Dabhi, Aditi Raja
Gujarat Police have deployed female officers in 'chaniya choli' at Navratri garba events to monitor safety discreetly. This undercover initiative by the SHE team aims to prevent harassment and ensure security for women and children during the festivities.
Undercover Vigilance: Ensuring Safety During Navratri
During the vibrant and high-energy celebrations of Navratri in Gujarat, the state police have adopted a unique approach to maintaining public order. Rather than relying solely on uniformed officers, the police have deployed female personnel—such as Inspector Chandrika Aasundra—who blend into the crowds by dressing in traditional chaniya choli. This tactical shift allows law enforcement to monitor large, dense gatherings with a level of discretion that traditional policing cannot achieve.
The Role of the SHE Team
These undercover officers belong to the specialized 'SHE' team of the Gujarat Police, a unit specifically mandated to protect women, children, and senior citizens. By operating as part of the crowd, these officers can identify potential threats, such as instances of harassment or stalking, before they escalate. This proactive stance is essential in the context of garba events, which attract thousands of participants nightly, making traditional surveillance difficult and often ineffective.
Blending In: The 'Mr. India' Strategy
Inspector Aasundra aptly describes the experience as feeling like the protagonist in the film Mr. India, where the officer is present but remains effectively invisible to the public. By adopting the attire and movements of regular revellers, these officers can maintain their professional alertness and tactical posture without disrupting the festive spirit. This 'invisible' presence acts as a powerful deterrent; potential offenders are less likely to act if they cannot distinguish between a fellow participant and a law enforcement official.
Tactical Challenges and Professionalism
While the objective is to ensure safety, the role requires a high degree of discipline. The officers must balance the enjoyment of the festival with the constant, underlying need for vigilance. Whether in uniform or ethnic wear, the fundamental police training—body posture, situational awareness, and quick response capability—remains unchanged. This duality of purpose highlights the evolving nature of policing in modern India, where community-focused initiatives are increasingly prioritized.
Broader Implications for Public Safety
This initiative by the Gujarat Police reflects a broader trend in Indian law enforcement to utilize community-integrated security models. By embedding officers within the social fabric of the event, the police foster a safer environment that encourages women to participate freely in cultural celebrations without fear. As these tactics continue to be refined, they offer a blueprint for how large-scale public gatherings can be managed effectively through intelligence-led and discreet policing methods, ultimately strengthening public trust in the state's security apparatus.