Kolkata: The 2015 batch IPS officer Papiya Sultana, the Superintendent of Police (SP) of Paschim Medinipur, is once again in the spotlight after a viral video from the swearing-in ceremony of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari sparked intense discussion on social media.
The senior police officer, who previously drew attention during the Sandeshkhali controversy, is widely recognized as West Bengal’s first Muslim woman IPS officer and has built a distinguished career marked by academic excellence and trailblazing achievements.
Why Papiya Sultana Is in the News
Papiya Sultana has come under scrutiny after a video from the recent swearing-in ceremony appeared to show her remaining seated when Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the venue.
The footage has generated debate online, with critics questioning her conduct during the high-profile event. The incident has added to earlier controversies surrounding her role in the Sandeshkhali investigation.
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Role in the Sandeshkhali Case
Papiya Sultana attracted national attention in February 2024 when she was part of the team constituted to investigate allegations of atrocities against women in Sandeshkhali.
During the inquiry, she faced criticism after reportedly asking complainants for documentary and medical evidence related to the allegations. Her handling of the case became a subject of political debate in West Bengal.
West Bengal’s First Muslim Woman IPS Officer
Papiya Sultana is regarded as the first Muslim woman from West Bengal to join the Indian Police Service.
She began her policing career by clearing the state police examination and later earned promotion to the IPS through the State Police Service quota.
IPS Batch and Current Posting
- Name: Papiya Sultana
- IPS Batch: 2015 (promoted from State Police Service)
- Cadre: West Bengal
- Current Posting: Superintendent of Police, Paschim Medinipur
- Date of Birth: July 5, 1980
Early Life and Family Background
Born in Bauria in Howrah, Papiya Sultana grew up in a middle-class family that strongly supported education.
- Father: Arjahan Haldar, an engineer
- Mother: Salema Jehan, a teacher at a madrasa
Her parents encouraged her academic ambitions and career aspirations from an early age.
Impressive Academic Qualifications
Papiya Sultana is known for her exceptional educational achievements. Her qualifications reportedly include:
- MBA
- Master’s in Gender Development
- LLB
- LLM
- Diplomas in Spanish and French
She has also pursued doctoral research in Women’s Studies at Jadavpur University.
Career Journey: From State Police (WBPS) to IPS
Papiya first joined the West Bengal Police Service in 2008 after clearing the examination on her first attempt. She began her career as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) in the West Bengal Police.
Her consistent performance led to her induction into the Indian Police Service as part of the 2015 select list.
Over the years, she has served in several important roles, including:
- SP, Home Guard Organisation
- Additional charge of Barrackpore 1st Battalion
- Superintendent of Police, Paschim Medinipur
Personal Life
Papiya Sultana married software engineer Badrul Alam in 2006. She is a mother and has often spoken about drawing inspiration from Kiran Bedi, one of India’s most prominent police officers.
Her journey continues to inspire many young women, especially those aspiring to join the civil services.
Why Her Story Matters
From a small town in Howrah to becoming a pioneering IPS officer, Papiya Sultana’s journey reflects determination, academic excellence, and resilience. However, the criticism and controversies surrounding some of her actions have also kept her in the news for reasons that sparked public debate and dissatisfaction among sections of people.
Whether praised for her achievements or criticized for her handling of sensitive issues, she remains one of the most talked-about and influential women police officers in West Bengal.
