In a historic development, Punjab’s armed women force is set to embark on their first-ever election duty outside the state as they are deployed to Madhya Pradesh, which is scheduled to hold elections on November 17.
The Punjab Armed Police (PAP) is breaking new ground by dispatching four companies comprising women personnel for election duty in a different state. These women units will be under the command of Avneet Kaur Sidhu, an Olympian and the current commandant of the 27th Battalion of PAP.
In addition to the PAP Battalions, an additional group of around 250 women constables has been selected from India Reserve Battalions and Commando Battalions to bolster the force.
This significant deployment marks a momentous occasion for these women constables, who were recruited in August 2022 and completed their training, graduating in September this year. It serves as a testament to the growing recognition of the capabilities and contributions of women in the field of law enforcement and their increasing participation in critical duties such as election security.