Future Female Forward | Former supercop Meeran Borwankar on law enforcement and gender equality

At CNBC-TV18's Future Female Forward event, Meeran Chadha Borwankar, former director general of police, Maharashtra, shared her remarkable journey and insights into law enforcement, gender equality, and the challenges she faced as a pioneering woman in the Indian Police Service (IPS). Borwankar's illustrious career, marked by integrity and resilience, has made her a role model for aspiring female officers and advocates for justice.

Breaking barriers in law enforcement

Borwankar began her address by reflecting on her early days at the National Police Academy, where she was the sole woman in the 1981 batch. "It was a daunting experience," she admitted. "Being the only woman among a sea of male counterparts required immense determination and resilience. But I was determined to prove that gender should never be a barrier to serving one's country."

Her determination paid off as she went on to become Maharashtra’s first female district police chief and its first female police commissioner. When asked about these historic milestones, she remarked, "It was not just a personal achievement but a victory for all women striving to break the glass ceiling. It demonstrated that women could lead and excel in roles traditionally dominated by men."

Tackling high-profile cases with integrity

Throughout her career, Borwankar handled numerous high-profile and sensitive cases. She recounted some of the most challenging investigations, including the Jalgaon sex scandal, communal riots, and encounters with notorious criminals like Chhota Rajan and Haseena Parkar. "Each case came with its own set of complexities," she said. "But my guiding principle was always to uphold the rule of law and ensure justice prevailed."

She emphasised the importance of integrity in law enforcement. "In our line of work, it's easy to become cynical or compromised. But I always believed that maintaining integrity was paramount. It not only builds trust with the public but also sets a standard for others to follow."

Navigating media and government pressures

As the state prison chief, Borwankar faced intense media scrutiny and government pressure while overseeing high-profile imprisonments and executions, including those of Sanjay Dutt, Ajmal Kasab, and Yakub Memon. "The media can be both an ally and a challenge," she noted. "Transparency is crucial, but so is ensuring that due process is followed without external pressures influencing decisions."

Borwankar also highlighted the importance of mental fortitude in such high-stress roles. "Handling such sensitive matters requires not just professional acumen but also emotional resilience. It's about making tough decisions while staying true to ethical standards."

Championing gender equality

Borwankar has been a vocal advocate for gender equality within the police force. "Women bring a unique perspective to law enforcement," she stated. "We need to create an environment that encourages more women to join and thrive in this field."

She shared her experiences of combating gender discrimination within the force. "There were moments when I had to stand up against prejudices and biases," she said. "But every challenge was an opportunity to pave the way for future generations of women officers."

Reflections on a distinguished career

Reflecting on her 36-year career, Borwankar expressed satisfaction with her contribution to the criminal justice system. "I have seen the best and worst of humanity," she reflected. "But I am proud of my journey and the impact I have made."

ALSO READ | Future Female Forward | Women-only team at this Chennai cafe is helping build lives, set benchmarks

She concluded with a message for young aspiring officers: "Believe in yourself and your principles. The path may be tough, but perseverance and integrity will always guide you to success."