Dalbir Kaur : The woman behind Kupwara’s safe heaven for women and children

Kupwara : In a beautiful yet challenging town of North Kashmir, a dedicated woman police officer is making a significant impact in empowering the women and children of Kupwara district.

Dalbir Kaur, Station House Officer (SHO) at the Women’s Police Station in Kupwara, is working tirelessly to raise awareness about women’s rights and ensure their safety. Under her leadership, the police station has not only resolved hundreds of cases but has also become a beacon of hope for many victims of domestic violence, abuse, and injustice.

Since assuming her role, Kaur has overseen the resolution of over hundreds cases related to women and children, a remarkable achievement considering the social and cultural barriers she faces.

In an exclusive interview with The Global Kashmir, Kaur spoke about her journey and the challenges she encounters daily. “I have received cases involving doctors, engineers, lawyers, Teachers and other professionals,” she said. “People come to us with all kinds of issues—mostly related to family problems—where they often lack the knowledge to resolve conflicts. Our role is to guide them and help them understand their rights.”

Kaur’s approach to resolving issues is rooted in education and awareness. She believes that many problems, particularly matrimonial disputes, can be solved without legal intervention if both parties are willing to communicate and understand each other. “I never prefer to send couple-related cases to court unless it’s absolutely necessary. Most of these issues can be resolved at home, with patience and understanding,” she explained.

She stresses the importance of parents being vigilant and open-minded. “Parents must keep a watch on their children, especially on what they do with their phones. If a girl brings home a phone, the parents should ask where it came from,” Kaur said. She also encourages parents to create a friendly environment where their children feel safe sharing their concerns. “A mother is the best teacher. If young girls feel they can talk openly to their mothers, it can prevent many problems,” she added.

One of Kaur’s most memorable cases involved a young girl who had been sexually assaulted by a man from Assam. Kaur personally traveled to Assam to ensure the accused was brought to justice. “It was a difficult case, but with the support of senior officials, we managed to get justice for the victim,” Kaur recalled.

The challenges of her job are immense, but Kaur remains determined. “We receive cases every day, and it’s my duty to follow them up and ensure justice is served,” she said. Despite the cultural taboos surrounding women’s issues, the Women’s Police Station in Kupwara has become a place where women feel comfortable coming forward with their problems. “Earlier, when there was a male staff, women felt hesitant to approach the police. But now, with female officers, they feel more at ease and are more willing to share their concerns,” Kaur explained.

Her efforts are not just limited to Kupwara. Kaur has traveled to different parts of India to help bring justice to Kashmiri girls who face abuse or exploitation. “We go wherever our help is needed. Whether it’s outside the Union Territory or within, we make sure the victims get the relief they deserve,” she said.

Kaur’s leadership has made a significant difference in the lives of many women in the border district. Her work is not only about solving cases but also about empowering the next generation of women to stand up for their rights. “We are constantly running awareness programs to educate women and girls about their legal rights and how they can protect themselves,” she said.

The Women’s Police Station in Kupwara, under Dalbir Kaur’s leadership, has become a model for other areas, showing how dedicated police work, education, and community engagement can create lasting change. Kaur’s passion for justice and her unwavering commitment to women’s safety continues to inspire many, proving that even in the most challenging circumstances, one person can make a difference.