IPS Manjita Vanzara: Weaving Empathy and Transformation in Policing

January 12, 2024

4 Minutes

IPS Manjita Vanzara (Photo Credits: BBC)

Navigating from Fashion Design to Civil Services

Born to be a civil servant, Manjita defied expectations. Her heart craved a different canvas, leading her to fashion design. Yet, witnessing societal struggles ignited a passion for service. After completing her Engineering degree, her creative instincts led her to NIFT for Fashion Designing. While working with top clothing brands, she felt something was missing. Eventually, she pursued a Masters in Education, worked as a lecturer, and took on the challenge of the state Civil Services Exam, joining as ACP of F-Division in 2013. Her story is an inspiration – a testament to defying expectations and carving your own path and leaving a lasting mark on the world. 

Policing with a Purpose

She entered the field of policing, with a mindset to bring a change to the system. Be it our media or films, whatever is the purpose of the police, it remains the same but Manjita realized that things would be different as she entered the field. Within two years of working she realized that there were different types of criminals and the world wasn’t so black and white afterall. She decided to adapt to a different type of policing which was more open and considerate to the history and the psychology of the criminal. 

A Different Approach to Criminal Justice

She is not reinventing the wheel. Ms. Vanzara acknowledges that her approach to policing is not new. There are many police officers who are doing similar things. However, she believes that it is important to focus on the positive aspects of policing and to show how it can make a difference in people's lives.

The Sakhi Sahay Initiative

Manjita believes policing is more than just catching criminals; it's about changing lives. Enter 'Sakhi Sahay,' an initiative focused on transforming women from the Chhara community, known for illegal activities. She joined hands with an NGO to change two rooms in her station into makeshift classrooms. Women were taught sewing and crafting beautiful textiles. "Sakhi Sahay" wasn't just about transforming women from the Chhara community, known for illegal activities. She joined hands with an NGO to change two rooms in her station into makeshift classrooms. Women were taught sewing and crafting beautiful textiles. "Sakhi Sahay" wasn't just about learning skills; it aimed to heal minds and spirits. Counseling sessions addressed the worries and burdens that often led to illegal activities. 

Changing Lives, One Stitch at a Time

However, finding opportunities for these reformed women was a big challenge. Employers worried about their past and refused to hire them. But Manjita didn't give up. She used her connections from her previous life as a fashion designer. Friends from the industry, inspired by her dedication, offered work opportunities. Orders started coming in, and the women's excellent handiwork gained attention.

Slowly, lives began to change. Children, who used to feel ashamed of their parents' illegal activities, now proudly held their heads high. Their mothers became breadwinners, earning respect and ensuring a secure future.

Today, "Sakhi Sahay" is a symbol of hope, proving the strength of belief and determination. More than 1000 women, once stuck in the cycle of crime, now confidently walk a better path, all thanks to Manjita's commitment to changing lives, one stitch at a time. Her story reminds us that even in dark times, a small act of empathy can spark a revolution, transforming not just individuals but entire communities.

Also read: Engineer, Teacher, Fashion Designer, Dancer, this Police Officer’s Been All!

Beyond Material Success - A Different Kind of Riches

In the story of Manjita's life, filled with different experiences, her love for helping others stands out the most. While some people focus on making a lot of money or owning fancy things, Manjita values something else – the happiness she sees in children's faces and the relief in the eyes of women going through tough times. She believes that this kind of satisfaction is more important than any amount of money her friends, who are busy chasing financial success, could ever earn. Maybe it's because of her unique set of experiences that she is so committed to helping others. Every part of her life – from being a graceful dancer and precise fashion designer to a logical problem-solving engineer and a caring teacher – has become a part of who she is. These experiences have shaped how she approaches the often challenging world of policing. In Manjita's world, success isn't about the amount of money in a bank statement. It's about changing lives, easing burdens, and seeing smiles bloom despite tough times. In that world, she is without a doubt rich in a way that can't be taken away from her.

Conclusion

Manjita Vanzara's story isn't just about catching criminals and wearing a uniform. It's a heartwarming tale of using her creativity and kindness to change the lives of those who need it most, especially women from disadvantaged backgrounds. She's not just a police officer; she's a beacon of hope and a shining example of what one person can do to make a real difference in the world.