Former Kerala DGP Joins BJP, Draws Attention to Modi’s Influence

The former Director General of Police (DGP) of Kerala, R. Sreelekha, has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), marking a significant political development in the state’s landscape. The announcement was made at a ceremony in Thiruvananthapuram at Sreelekha’s residence, where BJP state president K. Surendran officially welcomed her into the party. During the event, Sreelekha was presented with a shawl, a bouquet, and a lotus, symbolizing her induction into the party.

K. Surendran praised Sreelekha for her extensive reforms in the police department and acknowledged her as a trailblazer for women’s empowerment within the force. “She made revolutionary decisions for the empowerment of women in the police,” Surendran remarked. Sreelekha, who is also a noted writer, was commended for her leadership and courage. Surendran noted that it was a proud moment to induct a brave woman leader during the Navratri festival, a period celebrating female strength.

Sreelekha cited Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s influence over the past decade as a key reason for her decision to join the BJP. She mentioned that, after contemplating for three weeks, she concluded that this move would provide her with a platform to continue serving the community. “After observing from a distance post-retirement, I saw this as a beneficial path,” Sreelekha stated. She also expressed faith in BJP’s ideologies, which played a role in her decision to support the party.

Sreelekha began her career as a Circle Assistant Superintendent of Police in Cherthala and served in various capacities across Thrissur, Pathanamthitta, and Alappuzha districts as a Superintendent of Police. Her career included pivotal roles in the Vigilance and Crime Branch units of the Kerala Police, eventually serving as the Inspector General (IG), Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), and ultimately retiring as the head of the Fire Force.