Syalu Maharana, a dedicated officer in the CRPF, was selected for the UN Peacekeeping Mission in Liberia in 2009, where she served as Chief Operations Officer of the all-women Fully Formed Female Police Unit. Their mission significantly contributed to the country’s peace-building efforts post-civil war, garnering respect from the local population. Maharana’s journey reflects the increased participation of women in global peacekeeping initiatives and law enforcement.
Syalu Maharana, a 33-year-old officer in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), faced the challenges of motherhood while excelling in her demanding job when she was selected for her first overseas deployment to the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) in 2009. Liberia was in the aftermath of devastating civil wars, having endured significant suffering with over 250,000 lives lost and millions displaced.
Embracing challenges, Maharana qualified for this prestigious role after meeting stringent prerequisites and deciding to join an all-women contingent, leaving behind her three-year-old child. Reflecting on her transformative experiences as the Chief Operations Officer of the Fully Formed Female Police Unit (FFPU), she remarked, “It was an eye-opening experience and a big cultural shock to interact with different nationalities. We had the power to empower people who are victims of ethnic violence and armed rebellion.”
India’s contribution to international peacekeeping is notable, particularly its deployment of an all-women FFPU in Liberia, comprising 125 women tasked with supporting the nation’s political transition toward peace. They were highly regarded by the local populace, contributing to law enforcement, social duties, and police training during a tumultuous period under President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first female head of state.
Maharana emphasized the respect and pride the Liberian people had for the UN peacekeepers, stating, “The blue helmets of the UN were respected. Liberian people were impressed with the all-women contingent. They looked at us with pride and we felt proud wearing the uniform.” Their successful mission set a precedent, and even the President sought part of their contingent for her security.
Following her impactful tenure in Liberia, Maharana continued to serve in various challenging roles, including being the sole female officer within an all-male contingent in Dantewada, and later in Kashmir and Ahmedabad. She subsequently earned a promotion to Commanding Officer, ultimately leading one of the six all-women battalions within the CRPF, showcasing her leadership and dedication to duty.
Syalu Maharana’s journey exemplifies the significant contributions of women in global peacekeeping efforts. Her leadership in Liberia as part of the first all-female police unit under the UN demonstrates the impact of female officers in establishing security and fostering social progress. Maharana’s continued success in her career underscores the evolving role of women in traditionally male-dominated fields, particularly in law enforcement and international missions.
Original Source: www.outlookindia.com
