Women's Day Special :This cop's also a really good sport

One look and you’d jump to the conclusion that Manjula Dasarahalli Muniappa is too timid to be in the police force. On the track field, though, it’s a different ballgame. Her wiry frame intimidates even the best athletes. The 32-year-old police constable has won over 300 prizes in national- and state-level athletics, and an equal number in games like kabaddi, judo, karate.

Though she knew that her calling lay in sports, Muniappa decided to join the police force. “I was studying for the exam for the post of a sub-inspector. Higher officials recognised my talent in sports and offered me the job of a police constable.”

She struck a compromise after the assurance that she wouldn’t have to quit the world of sports for it. The decision has stood her in good stead. In her 13 years of service, Muniappa has participated in several sporting events.  But her passion doesn’t come in the way of her work. “I love my job. After sports meets, I go on my patrols,” says the mother of two. So, what’s stopping more woman police personnel from taking to sports? “Our department isn’t doing enough to encourage women to participate in sports. I’m sure many women will get back to their duties with renewed vigour if they can take up a game.”