DCP PANKAJ KUMAR
In this edition of Cafe Social Magazine’s “Khaki Ki Shaan,” we bring you an inspiring tale of valor and dedication from the life of Pankaj Kumar, a decorated officer of the Delhi Police. With his exemplary service record and commitment to upholding law and order, he stands as a beacon of inspiration for the next generation of officers.
Q: Mr. Kumar, could you start by sharing what inspired you to join the police force?
A: Certainly. My inspiration came from a desire to serve the public and contribute to society. After completing my Master’s from the University of Allahabad in 2004, I decided to join the Delhi Police in 2009 as part of the DANIPS cadre. The prospect of facing diverse challenges and being a part of the backbone of public safety was something I found deeply fulfilling.
Q: Your career spans various roles. Could you highlight some of your early experiences?
A: My initial years as an ACP involved postings in diverse departments such as the Police Training College, Traffic, Special Branch, and Security. Each role brought unique responsibilities. For instance, in Traffic, I gained insights into logistics and operational planning, while at the Special Branch, I delved into intelligence and investigation. These assignments laid the foundation for my approach to policing and leadership.
Q: You were posted in Daman from 2013 to 2016. How did that experience shape you as an officer?
A: Serving in Daman was unique because it required me to adapt to a different administrative setup and address local issues more directly. Policing there emphasized the importance of being in touch with the community, which taught me valuable lessons in grassroots-level engagement. It was both humbling and enriching.
Q: One of your significant contributions was during the North-East Delhi riots. How did you manage the challenges of that situation?
A: The riots posed a critical challenge, with the area engulfed in communal tensions. My focus was on maintaining peace and harmony through open dialogue, swift decision-making, and ensuring law enforcement acted impartially. Beyond controlling the unrest, my role extended to contributing to the investigative theories that followed, ensuring justice was served. It was a test of patience and teamwork, but we emerged stronger.
Q: As the first officer to serve as DCP/Operations, what challenges did you face, and how did you address them?
A: The role came at a pivotal moment when the PCR unit was being merged into district operations. It involved reallocating hundreds of PCR vans and integrating personnel into district teams. This was a complex task requiring careful planning and coordination. By fostering collaboration and maintaining clear communication, we successfully streamlined this transition, making the unit more effective and responsive.
Q: New Delhi District is often in the national spotlight. What were your key responsibilities there?
A: Serving as Additional DCP in New Delhi District involved handling high-profile events such as Republic Day parades, VVIP movements, and protests at Jantar Mantar. These tasks required precision, coordination, and a proactive approach. I’m proud of how our team consistently ensured the safety and smooth execution of these events, reflecting the professionalism of the Delhi Police.
Q: You also played an important role during the farmers’ movement at Singhu border. What was your approach to handling such a sensitive situation?
A: The farmers’ protests were a delicate situation that required balancing law enforcement with empathy for the protesters’ concerns. My strategy involved maintaining open communication channels and ensuring that law and order were preserved without escalating tensions. It was a team effort, and I’m glad we managed to uphold peace and stability during that time.
Q: Recently, you were a key figure during the G20 Summit. Could you share your experience of managing such a high-stakes event?
A: The G20 Summit was a critical assignment, given its international significance. My responsibilities included overseeing VVIP routes, ensuring smooth traffic movement for foreign dignitaries, and managing operations in sensitive zones. With over 700 officers under my command, it required meticulous planning and constant coordination. The event was a success, thanks to the dedication of my team and the collective effort of all involved.
Q: Policing is often regarded as one of the most stressful professions. How do you manage to stay composed under pressure?
A: Policing indeed comes with immense stress, but staying composed is key. I believe in leading by example—maintaining calmness and objectivity even in high-pressure situations. Listening patiently, analyzing challenges thoroughly, and staying empathetic to the needs of others are qualities that help me navigate the demands of this profession.
Q: What has been the most significant learning in your career so far?
A: My biggest learning has been the importance of adaptability and empathy. No two situations are alike, and as an officer, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of each case while upholding the law. Leadership, for me, is about inspiring trust, fostering teamwork, and making decisions that reflect integrity and fairness.
Q: What message would you like to share with young officers or aspirants of the uniformed services?
A: My message is simple: enter this profession with a commitment to serve and uphold justice. Be honest, work hard, and approach challenges as opportunities to grow. The khaki uniform is a symbol of responsibility and trust—wear it with pride and always strive to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Q: Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for the future?
A: My goal is to continue contributing to the betterment of our force and society. I aim to mentor young officers, enhance community engagement, and ensure that our policing strategies evolve to meet the needs of our citizens. Every day in this role is an opportunity to serve, and I’m committed to making the most of it.
Pankaj Kumar’s journey reflects the courage and dedication of India’s khaki-clad heroes. His story not only inspires those in uniform but also motivates citizens to appreciate the sacrifices made by the brave men and women safeguarding our nation. At Cafe Social Magazine, we salute officers like him who exemplify the true spirit of service.
Stay tuned for more such remarkable tales in the “Khaki Ki Shaan” section of Cafe Social Magazine. Let these stories fuel your own aspirations and appreciation for those who silently protect our freedom and safety.
New Delhi
