Maharashtra’s 1st woman DGP steps down after 37 years; ‘26/11 hero’ appointed successor

Mumbai: Rashmi Shukla, Maharashtra’s first woman Director General of Police (DGP), retired on Saturday after completing 37 and a half years of service in the Indian Police Service (IPS).

The 1988-batch IPS officer said she was satisfied with her career and wished good health and a fulfilling life for all officers and staff of the Maharashtra Police.

Reflecting on her role as the state’s first woman DGP, Shukla said the position was gender-neutral and that the responsibilities remained the same regardless of who held the office. She also expressed pride in her earlier posting as Director General of the Sashastra Seema Bal.

She was accorded a Guard of Honour at a farewell parade held at the Naigaon Police Ground in Bhoiwada, attended by senior police officers from across the state.

Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Shukla said she was stepping down with a sense of nostalgia. “After serving for 37 and a half years, I am retiring from the Indian Police Service. Maharashtra Police has given me so much, and I have learnt a lot,” she said, adding that teamwork had helped the force reach new heights during her tenure.

‘26/11 hero’ Sadanand Date appointed as successor

Senior IPS officer Sadanand Date has been appointed as Shukla’s successor. Date, who is widely known as a 26/11 hero for his role during the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, previously served as Director General of the National Investigation Agency and was recently repatriated to the Maharashtra cadre.

Date and Mumbai Police Commissioner Deven Bharti were among the senior officers present at the farewell ceremony. The new DGP is expected to formally assume charge later on Saturday.

PTI