Guardians of the City: Women in uniform lead the way to safer streets

As evening drapes over Shyambazar Five-point crossing, Kolkata hums with reassurance. At the heart of this safety network are the city’s women-led initiatives – the all-women Pink Booths & mobile patrol teams named SHINING. Behind this visible presence stands Madhuri Sarkar, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Woman), Kolkata Police, leading a force of 1,583 women officers who ensure that protection is not just promised, but lived. This Women’s Day, our city streets tell a story of empowerment, responsibility and courage – where women are not only protected but also lead that protection, embodying confidence and steadfast leadership.

Empowering women through responsibility
Taking charge of the all women Pink Booths and SHINING Mobile Patrol Teams has brought a renewed sense of purpose to Madhuri’s life. “For me, this power is inseparable from responsibility. Representing Kolkata Police is a matter of pride and trust,” she says. The initiatives are designed not only to enhance safety but also to empower women, demonstrating that they can lead and protect. The Pink Booths operate daily from evening until midnight, serving as accessible help points where women can approach female officers directly if they need assistance or are in distress. “Our goal is to ensure that every woman feels confident that help is close at hand whenever she needs it,” she adds.

From inspiration to duty
Jayanti Sarkar and Priyanka Dutta’s journey in the police service was shaped by childhood dreams and family influence. Hailing from Purba Bardhaman, Jayanti nurtured the goal of joining the force from an early age, and after 13 years of service, her posting at the Pink Booth reflects not just professional achievement, but the growing leadership of women in policing. Priyanka, inspired by her father’s service, recalls, “Seeing my father not just as a policeman, but as a person of discipline and strong values, played a major role in shaping my journey.” Her dedication and selection into the force stand as a testament to that early influence. Together, they embody courage, responsibility, and the pride of women leading from the front.

Leadership that inspires
Madhuri believes in leadership without pressure, giving her team freedom while expecting dedication. “I encourage open communication because it strengthens teamwork and helps us achieve meaningful results,” she says. Leading these all-women initiatives reminds her that protection and leadership go hand in hand: “Women will not only be protected – they are also leading that protection for the city.” “If my journey inspires even a few women to believe in themselves and step forward with confidence, I feel I have achieved something meaningful,” Madhuri concludes, highlighting her belief that leadership is continuous, consistent, and deeply committed.


Driven by duty
For Madhuri, wearing the police uniform is a constant reminder of her duty to serve, protect and uphold justice. “As a woman, the uniform gives me the strength to show that women can lead, safeguard communities and help make society a safer place,” she says. Interestingly, becoming a police officer was never a childhood dream. She joined the police force in 2004 after being recruited through competitive examinations, much like many young graduates who prepare for various civil services. “Discipline and physical fitness, habits I absorbed from watching my father, later helped prepare me for the physical and mental demands of this profession,” she reflects. Maintaining mental balance, she believes, is just as important. “Focusing on positive energy helps me stay grounded, maintain clarity and continue working effectively,”
she adds.

Leadership that inspires
Madhuri believes in leadership without pressure, giving her team freedom while expecting dedication. “I encourage open communication because it strengthens teamwork and helps us achieve meaningful results,” she says. Leading these all-women initiatives reminds her that protection and leadership go hand in hand: “Women will not only be protected – they are also leading that protection for the city.” “If my journey inspires even a few women to believe in themselves and step forward with confidence, I feel I have achieved something meaningful,” Madhuri concludes, highlighting her belief that leadership is continuous, consistent, and deeply committed.

Madhuri’s off-duty watchlist
Mardaani: The film showcases fearless women in law enforcement
The Family Man: A thrilling series highlighting courage and resilience
Jai Gangaajal: Priyanka Chopra’s portrayal of SP Abha Mathur reflects integrity, bravery,
and dedication


To me, the uniform has always been a symbol of dedication, bravery, and empowerment. These are a few qualities that feel even more meaningful when embodied by a woman
– Jayanti Sarkar, constable




Being on duty fills me with pride and a deep sense of responsibility. It feels like a step forward towards safer roads and a safer city for women. Wearing the uniform gives me a stronger sense of purpose
– Priyanka Dutta, constable

Women should not limit themselves because of gender biases. See yourself as an equal, stay committed to your work, and success will follow. There is no need to prove anything extra
– Madhuri Sarkar, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Woman), Kolkata Police


It’s no longer just about protecting women, they are now leading from the front, protecting others. It’s important to belive in yourself and be financially independent
– Priyanka Dutta, constable


Many women pass the Shyambazar crossing every day. Knowing that our presence makes them feel safer makes our work more meaningful
– Jayanti Sarkar, constable


Leadership does not need to be loud. In my experience, trust, not pressure, brings out the best in a team. My team and I have been working closely to implement Kolkata Police’s newly launched initiatives
– DCWP Madhuri Sarkar


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