According to the India Justice Report 2025, there are only 960 female IPS officers in the country, while 90% of female police personnel are employed in junior positions such as constables.
New Delhi: Despite numerous efforts towards women's empowerment, the participation of women in the police department and their representation in higher positions remains a cause for concern. According to the India Justice Report 2025, out of a total of 2.4 lakh female police personnel in India, only 960 are serving at the IPS rank, while approximately 2.17 lakh women are serving in junior ranks such as constables.
Fewer than 1,000 Female Officers in Senior Positions
The report reveals that fewer than 1,000 female officers are serving in senior positions such as DGP and SP across the country. Meanwhile, approximately 24,322 women are employed in non-IPS officer positions like DSP, Inspector, and Sub-Inspector.
The authorized number of IPS officers in India is 5,047, but the participation of women remains extremely limited. This figure reflects a serious gender disparity in the police system.
Madhya Pradesh Has the Highest Number of Female DSPs
According to the report, Madhya Pradesh has the highest number of female DSPs at 133. The report also states that 78% of police stations have women's help desks, which is a positive sign of improvement at the grassroots level.
Progress in Judiciary and Legal Aid
The report analyzes not only the police system but also the prison system, judiciary, and legal aid system. Between 2019 and 2023, per capita expenditure on legal aid doubled to ₹6.46. During the same period, the representation of female judges in the district judiciary increased to 38%.
However, the representation of Scheduled Tribes (ST) and Scheduled Castes (SC) in the judiciary remains low—with SC representation at 14% and ST representation at only 5%.
All States Fail to Meet Targets for Women's Participation
The report also indicates that no state or union territory in the country has met the prescribed targets for women's representation in the police department. While awareness regarding gender diversity has increased, a significant change is still needed in ground reality.
