Pune Book Festival: Invest in tech, empower constabulary, involve citizens, says ex-IPS officer Meeran Borwankar

“Now that I am retired, I can say that there should be an improvement in the police force,” said Borwankar during her interaction with the audience. She recounted an incident where two girls were harassed in a café, but it was the control room recording that helped the officers identify and respond to the situation swiftly. “We must invest in technology for better documentation, so we can hold officers accountable and prove our actions when needed,” she said.

Another crucial aspect of modern policing, as per Borwankar, is the involvement of citizens. She recalls a case where citizens provided vital information that led to the capture of a suspect, highlighting how collaboration between the police and the community can significantly enhance law enforcement effectiveness. “We need citizens to be our partners, not just our critics. If they are informed and involved, we can make policing more effective and equitable,” Borwankar said.

She opened up about the gender bias she faced. “Being a woman in a male-dominated field means you have to work harder, but it also offers a unique perspective on leadership,” she said.

In her book, Madam Commissioner, Borwankar highlights the importance of having well-trained officers who are not only physically fit but also equipped with the skills needed to handle the complexities of modern law enforcement. She advocates for better training and the use of innovative policing methods, which include using academics and practitioners together to bridge the knowledge gap.

After the event, she told The Indian Express, “We have to encourage our ground-level officers to believe they are leaders and problem-solvers. If we fail to do that, we create a culture where people are reactive instead of proactive.”