In an exclusive interview with Rising Kashmir’s Chief Reporter Irfan Yattoo, DySP Police Headquarters Srinagar, Syed Sleet Shah (JKPS-2015), shares her journey into the police force, the challenges she faced, and how she overcame them.
She discusses the evolving role of women in policing, the steps taken by J&K Police for women’s safety, and the importance of family support in law enforcement careers.
With her experience spanning various critical postings, DySP Sleet Shah highlights the need for more women in the police force and encourages young aspirants to step forward and serve society.
Experts:
Can you share a bit about your background & what inspired you to join the police force?
I was born and brought up in Kashmir, and my inspiration to join the police force came from my father, who retired as Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir.
Since childhood, I was exposed to the police environment, and when I cracked the civil services exam in 2015, I was fortunate to be selected for the police services. It wasn’t something extraordinary for me because I was already familiar with the field.
With time and experience, I realized that policing has immense potential to serve people. Beyond law enforcement, the police play a crucial role in assisting society. It is an institution that should be encouraged, and people should feel comfortable seeking aid and assistance. I strongly believe that if the police function efficiently, they can transform society for the better.
What challenges did you face during your tenure?
When I first joined the police services, the induction training focused heavily on the physical aspect. I was a very thin girl, and our coach constantly pushed us to run, exercise, and participate in races.
We also had to undergo rigorous weapon training. Initially, I thought my physical limitations would be a challenge, but the training helped me build both mental and physical strength. It was one of the toughest phases of my life.
However, the real challenges began after joining the service. Working in the police department comes with immense responsibilities and high public expectations.
People approach us as their last resort, and dealing with crime and distressing situations can take a toll on one’s mental health.
Over the years, I have learned to remain dispassionate and focused on my work, making the best possible judgments in every case. Each challenge has shaped me into a sharper, more resilient officer.
Can you tell us about your postings and experience in different roles?
My first posting was in a battalion in New Delhi for two years. After that, I was posted in Reasi, followed by a tenure in Cyber Crime Kashmir and additionally, I was also the Chief Investigation Officer for District Srinagar. Later, I served as SDPO Handwara, and currently, I am the DySP Headquarters Srinagar.
How has the role of women in policing evolved over the years?
Traditionally, policing has been a male-dominated field, with men preferring to join the force. However, over time, it has become evident that women’s representation is essential, especially when addressing crimes against women and children.
Women constitute a significant portion of the population, and having female officers enables better understanding and resolution of their issues. Women officers create a more approachable environment for female victims seeking justice.
Women are no longer confined to the background; they are front-runners in every sector. I firmly believe that policing should not be an exclusive domain for men—women can and do make a significant impact in this field. It is encouraging to see young female officers actively contributing to law enforcement.
What steps has J&K Police taken for women’s safety in Srinagar?
J&K Police has established women’s police stations in every district, where crimes against women are thoroughly investigated, and grievances are addressed.
In Srinagar, we have a Women’s Safety Squad, a mobile team dedicated to protecting women in public spaces such as schools, colleges, and parks. This squad responds swiftly to incidents of harassment and ensures immediate action is taken.
Additionally, we have women’s helplines where complaints can be recorded, along with women’s help desks in every police station. These initiatives ensure that crimes against women are properly investigated, and justice is delivered.
Can you share any significant cases that had an impact on you?
There have been several challenging cases that I still remember, though most are under trial or investigation. Once they are completed, I will be able to discuss them in detail. Some cases have required sleepless nights, intense pressure, and immense focus. However, these experiences have been learning opportunities that have strengthened my skills and resilience.
How do you maintain a balance between your professional and personal life?
Maintaining a healthy balance between professional and personal life is crucial. We are not machines—we work 12-13 hours a day with full dedication, but we also have families that need our time and attention. Striking a balance is all about setting priorities. Sometimes, family takes precedence, while at other times, duty calls, and we must step out of our comfort zone to serve the people.
Even during meals, I often attend calls from people seeking help because, as a public officer, I must be available to assist those in need. It is a challenging balance, but it is necessary.
Why are there still fewer women officers at higher ranks in police force? Should there be more initiatives to encourage them?
At the lower levels, there is a good representation of women officers. However, at the gazetted ranks, women can enter only through the JKPSC exams, and there are no shortcuts.
Over the past decade, successive batches of female officers have joined the police force, and I believe this trend will continue to grow.
Whenever I meet young aspirants, they often tell me that my journey has inspired them, which brings me immense joy.
I am confident that in the coming years, we will see a significant increase in women officers. Some people may perceive policing as a tough field for women, but I believe women are strong enough to handle challenges in any profession. They just need to be mentally strong, confident, and physically fit for the job.
How important is family support in pursuing a career in policing?
Family support is the backbone of any profession. It provides the foundation for an individual’s confidence and determination. No matter what career path one chooses, family encouragement plays a vital role in success.
I urge parents to support their children in following their dreams. If you see potential in your child, stand by them, guide them, and help them achieve their aspirations.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to join the police force?
My advice to young women is simple, do not overthink about entering this field. It is a highly respected profession that provides an opportunity to serve society.
There is ample space for women to contribute meaningfully and make a difference. I hope to see more young women joining the force and taking on leadership roles in the future.
