Malkajgiri’s First Woman Commissioner IPS Sumathi Conducts Midnight Undercover Operation; 40 Men Approach in 3 Hours
In a bold and unconventional initiative to assess women’s safety in urban public spaces, IPS officer B. Sumathi, the newly appointed Commissioner of Police, Malkajgiri, went undercover past midnight at a bus stop in Hyderabad. The exercise, conducted between 12:30 AM and 3:30 AM, was designed to directly observe the challenges faced by women when alone at night without police presence or protection.
The Experiment: Standing Alone at Midnight
Dressed as an ordinary woman, Sumathi stood alone at a bus stop in Malkajgiri, deliberately avoiding any visible police deployment or security cover. The aim was to move beyond formal complaints and reports, and instead experience firsthand the vulnerabilities women encounter in public spaces during late-night hours.
Disturbing Findings: 40 Men Approached
Within just three hours, nearly 40 men approached her, many reportedly under the influence of alcohol, while some were suspected to be intoxicated with ganja. The individuals included:
Young men
Students
Working professionals
Most were unaware that they were interacting with a senior IPS officer. The incident highlighted the prevalence of street harassment and unsafe conditions for women in Hyderabad during late-night hours.
Police Response: Counselling Over Cases
Following the operation, police identified the individuals involved. Instead of immediately registering criminal cases, authorities opted for corrective measures:
Calling the men for counselling sessions.
Issuing strict warnings regarding public behaviour.
Sensitising them about women’s safety and respect in public spaces.
Officials explained that the focus was on behavioural change and awareness, rather than punitive action alone.
Public Reaction and Appreciation
The initiative has received widespread appreciation from local residents, especially women, who praised the practical approach taken by the Commissioner. Many viewed the exercise as a strong message on public responsibility and women’s safety awareness, reinforcing the need for collective vigilance.
Not the First Such Initiative
This was not Sumathi’s first undercover operation. Nearly 25 years ago, during her early career as Deputy Superintendent of Police near Kazipet railway station, she had conducted a similar experiment to assess women’s safety. Her career has consistently reflected a field-focused and proactive policing style.
Profile of IPS Officer Sumathi
A senior officer of the Telangana cadre, Sumathi has held several key positions, including:
Chief of the State Intelligence Bureau (SIB).
Leading role in Maoist surrender operations led by Devuji.
Commissioner of Police, Malkajgiri (appointed May 1, 2026).
Her policing career has been marked by operational initiatives and innovative approaches to law enforcement.
The midnight undercover operation by IPS Sumathi has once again brought attention to the serious challenges of women’s safety in public spaces. The findings underline the urgent need for stronger behavioural enforcement, sustained public awareness campaigns, and enhanced policing strategies to ensure safer streets for women in Hyderabad and beyond.
