An embodiment of women empowerment, in true sense
With great power comes great responsibility, and ensuring gender equality is one such task. In a bid to give more representation to women, Delhi Police has introduced a one-of-its-kind all-women bagpipe band.
“The idea is to promote women cops across all departments of Delhi Police. We should have 33% women in the organisation and this initiative, taken by the Commissioner of Police, is a step towards that,” says Chinmoy Biswal, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Crime and Public Relations Officer (PRO), Delhi Police.
The band consists of 45 women, out of which 36 are from the Northeast. They’ve been undergoing training over the last two months, and recently enthralled audience at India Gate, during the Delhi Police Raising Day function.
“So far, we only had a male band; this addition is historical. The group is still undergoing rigorous training to be one of the finest professional bands,” says Robin Hibu, Special Commissioner of Police.
While the male band wears a white and blue uniform, the women proudly sport hues of red and white. “Red stands out, and these women are role models and symbolise empowerment,” reasons Biswal.
To play a bagpipe, one needs to have immense control over their breath. Unable to do so, many opt out during the practice session itself. “We trained only those who learnt to hold their breath... I’ve been a part of Delhi Police for 38 years, but never felt this kind of energy. This band makes me proud,” says Lal Bahadur, instructor.
Mesmerising many with their tunes, the women personnel already have a fan following! “I was so excited when someone asked me for a selfie... She said she loved our performance and at that moment, I felt on cloud nine. We worked really hard to learn this instrument and break into a male domain. I hope we keep doing good work,” says Triveni Doley, a member of the band.