Women in Civil Defence Can Play a Key Role in National Security: Kiran Bedi, ex-Lt.Gov

PARTHA ROY, KOLKATA: India’s iconic living legend, Dr. Kiran Bedi, while addressing members of the Calcutta Chamber of Commerce Ladies Forum (CCCLF), stressed that civilian women can play a major role in national security as part of civil defence and community policing amid India’s highly volatile and evolving security situation. She delivered a talk to CCCLF members in Kolkata at the invitation of Smt. Manjula Jain, Chairperson of CCCLF, on November 12, 2025.

Kiran Bedi, India’s first woman IPS officer in 1972, shattered glass ceilings and inspired generations of women to embrace leadership and self-reliance. Through her India Vision Foundation, she championed financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and gender equity, emphasizing that true empowerment stems from education and economic independence. As the first female UN Police Adviser, she integrated women into peacekeeping operations, proving their indispensable role in global security.

As Inspector General of Tihar Jail (1993–1995), Bedi revolutionized Asia’s largest prison, converting it into “Tihar Ashram.” She introduced Vipassana meditation, yoga, vocational training, and de-addiction programs, reducing recidivism among inmates—including women and youth—while establishing childcare facilities for female prisoners. This approach fostered rehabilitation over retribution. Her anti-corruption drives empowered marginalized communities, turning despair into dignity.

In her role as Special Secretary to Delhi’s Lt. Governor (early 2010s), Bedi innovated community policing and traffic reforms, deploying women patrols to enhance urban safety and curb eve-teasing, thereby uplifting women’s mobility and societal participation.
As Lt. Governor of Puducherry (2016–2021), she digitized governance for greater transparency, launched cycle rallies for grassroots engagement, and rewarded civic virtues, boosting education, healthcare, and women’s safety initiatives. These efforts revitalized rural communities and advanced drug rehabilitation programs.

Bedi’s legacy—rooted in integrity and innovation—continues to empower women and transform society, proving that compassionate leadership heals divides. Dr. Kiran Bedi touched the hearts of the esteemed, multifaceted, and dynamic women members of CCCLF during her discourse. She also served as an inspiration for younger generations. Visionary leader Smt. Manjula Jain has been playing an important role in promoting women’s empowerment, freedom, and social upliftment in Kolkata and West Bengal for more than a decade, transforming the lives of thousands. Smt. Manjula Jain is also Heading of WICCI Eastern Region.