Gender Disparities In Indian Police Services: Barriers And Reforms
- IJLLR Journal
- Jun 19
- 1 min read
Harshita Choubey, Assistant Professor, School of Law and Public Policy, Avantika University
ABSTRACT
Despite policy advancements and growing awareness, gender disparities remain a persistent challenge in the Indian police services. Women, who first joined the force in 1938, still comprise only 11.7% of the total personnel— far below the recommended 33% benchmark. Their roles are often confined to handling cases involving women and juveniles, reinforcing outdated gender norms. This paper critically examines the structural, cultural, and institutional barriers hindering women’s full participation in policing, such as biased recruitment systems, limited promotional pathways, workplace harassment, inadequate infrastructure, and patriarchal work culture. Through a doctrinal research approach, it draws upon legislation, government reports, academic literature, and real-world case studies to assess existing challenges and reform initiatives. Particular focus is given to progressive models adopted by states like Kerala and Andhra Pradesh, and institutional platforms like the National Conference of Women in Police. While policy frameworks such as state-level reservation mandates and the Model Police Act have laid a foundation for gender inclusivity, gaps in implementation continue to obstruct meaningful progress. The study argues for comprehensive reforms combining legal mandates, organizational restructuring, and cultural transformation to achieve true gender equity in policing and strengthen public trust in law enforcement.
Keywords: Women in policing, gender disparity, Indian police services, gender-sensitive reforms, institutional barriers, law enforcement, policies, workplace discrimination, representation of women, police reforms in India.
