How will Deepti Sharma's appointment as Deputy SP impact women's representation in law enforcement?

Indian women's cricketer Deepti Sharma's childhood dream came true as she was presented with her Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) uniform in Uttar Pradesh. A regular member of the Indian women's cricket side, Deepti played a crucial role in India's silver medal-winning campaign at the 2023 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England.

In recognition of her achievements, the Uttar Pradesh government honoured Deepti with a cash reward of Rs 3 crore and an appointment letter for the post of Deputy SP. 

"Breaking Barriers: Deepti Sharma's Journey to Deputy SP and Her Gratitude to the UP Government"

"I'm overwhelmed with gratitude as I achieve this milestone! I'd like to extend my heartfelt thanks to my family, whose unwavering support and blessings have been my driving force. I'm also grateful to the Uttar Pradesh Government for this opportunity to serve. As I take on this new role as DSP in the Uttar Pradesh Police, I promise to dedicate myself fully to my duties and serve with integrity. Thank you all again for your support!#jaibajrangbali #UPPolice #DSP #NewChapter #27thjan2025," Deepti wrote in an Instagram post. 

A special ceremony was held in Moradabad on Monday, where she was officially presented with the Deputy SP uniform. Deepti's father, Bhagwan Sharma, and her brothers, Sumit Sharma and Prashant Sharma, accompanied her to Moradabad for the occasion. The Agra-born all-rounder received her appointment letter from the state government last year.

Deepti was also named in ICC Women's T20I Team of the Year 2024 alongside her teammates Smriti Mandhana and Richa Ghosh. India had the most representatives among all teams in the side, which also included two South Africans and one player each from Sri Lanka, England, West Indies, Australia, Ireland and Pakistan. South Africa's Laura Wolvaardt was named as the captain of the side.

Deepti proved to be a consistent performer in 2024, with her reliable batting and outstanding bowling spells playing a key role for India. Deepti took 30 wickets at an average of 17.80 and an economy rate of 6.01 in T20I in 2024.

The 27-year-old was amongst the wickets in almost every match, with standout performances such as three for 13 against Nepal in Dambulla and three from 20 overs against Pakistan in the Women's Asia Cup.