Police launches Swabhimaan, gender-inclusive workplace initiative
Delhi Police on Monday launched “Swabhimaan”, a gender-inclusive workplace initiative aimed at making police stations and women-centric units safer, more dignified and sensitive to the needs of women personnel.
The programme was inaugurated at the Special Police Unit for Women and Children (SPUWAC), Nanakpura, marking a significant step towards institutionalising gender sensitivity within the police force.
The initiative was formally launched by Special Commissioner of Police (Vigilance & SPUWAC) Ajay Chaudhry in the presence of senior officers, representatives of partner organisations and SPUWAC staff. Swabhimaan focuses on creating gender-sensitive police stations across Delhi, with special emphasis on inclusivity, dignity at the workplace and access to menstrual hygiene facilities.
Speaking at the launch, Chaudhry said initiatives such as Swabhimaan go beyond infrastructure and directly impact trust and efficiency within the police system. “A gender-inclusive workplace strengthens morale, improves productivity and reinforces the dignity of women in uniform. Sensitisation and supportive facilities are essential for a modern and responsive police force,” he said.
Swabhimaan is a joint initiative of Delhi Police and Public Police, led by former Chief Justice of India KG Balakrishnan, in collaboration with the Vyomini Social Foundation (VSF). The partnership brings together institutional authority, legal expertise and social advocacy to address gender sensitivity in a structured and sustainable manner within police workplaces.
Officials said the programme seeks to standardise basic gender-sensitive infrastructure across police stations, including period-friendly facilities, while also encouraging open conversations on menstrual health, an issue often overlooked in demanding work environments such as policing.
Deputy Commissioner of Police, SPUWAC, Anjitha Chepyala said that menstrual hygiene is a fundamental workplace requirement. “Menstrual hygiene is a basic need and an important part of workplace dignity. By creating period-friendly police stations, we are acknowledging the realities of women in uniform and taking a concrete step towards a more inclusive and supportive work environment,” she said.
