The historic appointment of Sanjukta Parashar, an IPS officer known as the ‘Iron Lady of Assam’, marks her as the first female Inspector General to lead the Central Reserve Police Force’s (CRPF) specialised jungle warfare unit, CoBRA. This development was announced on September 16.

Parashar, who belongs to the 2006 batch of the Assam-Meghalaya cadre, joined the CRPF at the beginning of September 2023. She was formally given charge of CoBRA last week, taking over a role that positions her at the forefront of operations in challenging terrains.

Widely recognised for her leadership during crucial operations against the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) while serving as Superintendent of Police in Sonitpur from 2013 to 2014, Parashar earned her reputation as the ‘Iron Lady’ during these engagements.

Professional Background and Education

Parashar hails from Assam and has a diverse professional background that includes service in both the state police and the National Investigation Agency (NIA), where she dealt with significant counter-terrorism investigations. Before her elevation to Inspector General of CoBRA, she was leading the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Assam Police.

Additionally, her educational qualifications include a degree in political science from Indraprastha College at the University of Delhi, followed by a PhD at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). This academic foundation supports her understanding of complex security issues.

Her appointment is particularly noteworthy as Parashar takes over CoBRA at a period marked by the force’s ongoing mission to secure forested regions in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, historically impacted by Left-Wing Extremism. The unit’s role extends to operations in Manipur, where ethnic violence has intermittently affected stability.

Significance of Her Leadership for CoBRA

Parashar’s leadership comes at a time when the presence of women in senior operational roles within the CRPF is becoming increasingly prominent. Women Inspector Generals already oversee several key formations, including those related to Jammu and the Rapid Action Force (RAF).

The CRPF’s CoBRA unit, officially known as the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action, was specifically established to tackle the unique challenges posed by jungle and guerrilla warfare. Parashar’s extensive operational experience aligns with CoBRA’s core responsibilities, which include conducting precision operations and managing tactical responses in difficult environments.

Her past engagements in counter-insurgency operations, especially in insurgency-prone areas, bolster her suitability for this role. The challenges addressed by CoBRA in regions such as Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha and Maharashtra are complex, requiring leadership rooted in firsthand field experience.

By appointing Parashar, the CRPF aims to adapt its operations to the evolving nature of security threats across the country. Her active field engagement during her initial career stages has solidified her reputation as an officer who confronts rather than shies away from challenges, enabling her to navigate the intricacies of security situations effectively.

As Parashar assumes her position as the IG of CoBRA, her appointment is seen as a strategic move to enhance the capabilities of this vital commando unit, already recognised for its proficiency in operations against armed insurgents in challenging terrains.

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