Tamil Nadu Police appoint two women cops as trainee handlers in dog squad

Coimbatore Police Commissioner V Balakrishnan highlighted their commitment to gender equality in all departments since assuming his role.

In a first in Tamil Nadu, the Coimbatore City Police have appointed two women cops from the armed reserve police as trainee handlers in the dog squad.

The officers, Bhavani (26) from Theni and Kavipriya (25) from Tirupur, are currently undergoing training at the Detective Dog Squad and Dog Training Centre in Coimbatore. Upon completing the six-month training program, they will assume full-time responsibilities as handlers of sniffer dogs.

Expressing their gratitude, the selected officers thanked City Police Commissioner V Balakrishnan for providing them with this opportunity, which is usually reserved for male officers.

Kavipriya, who holds a BSc in Physics, a BEd, and has completed various other courses, said she completed her training at the Police Recruitment School (PRS) in 2022. Intrigued by the dog squad demonstrations during their training, she expressed her interest and desire to be part of the squad to higher officials.

“When the officials sought individuals to join the squad, we expressed our interest. They inquired about our ability to care for the dogs and the challenges we might face. I feel extremely happy to have this opportunity. I consider myself fortunate to be posted in Coimbatore. We hope to succeed in this challenge,”

Special Sub-Inspector Ambalavanan stated that the two women officers will undergo a 45-day basic training program. Additionally, they will receive training in crime, explosives, and narcotics detection.

Bhavani, who holds a BA in English literature and a BPEd (Bachelor of Physical Education), said the training has been going well.

“I have been a pet lover since a young age. There was a perception that women wouldn’t fit into certain sections, but thanks to Commissioner Balakrishnan, who has taken numerous initiatives for women officers, we now have this opportunity,” she said.

According to the police, the dog training center was established in 2001. Approximately 215 dogs have been trained at this center, which is one of three in the state, excluding the two centers in Chennai. Currently, the center houses seven dogs of German Shepherd, Labrador, and Doberman breeds. Recently, a seven-month-old Belgian Shepherd was added to the squad and is currently undergoing training.

Coimbatore Police Commissioner V Balakrishnan highlighted their commitment to gender equality in all departments since assuming his role.

“We initiated the ‘Equality Project’ to ensure that women officers are equally represented in all departments, including the striking force, heavy vehicle driving, and the dog squad. The appointment of two women police officers in the dog squad is the latest addition to this list,” he said.