Dungarpur Woman Constable Suspended for Feet on Desk in Viral Photo; Says She Was in Severe Pain Due to Periods, No Restroom Available

Dungarpur- A woman constable posted at Bichhiwara Police Station in Rajasthan’s Dungarpur district has been suspended after a photograph showing her with both feet on a desk in the presence of an elderly complainant went viral on social media. The image triggered widespread outrage over police conduct and public etiquette.

Constable Reena Garg was suspended by Dungarpur Superintendent of Police Manish Kumar following the public backlash.

However, Reena provided her version of events to a news channel. She stated that on June 12, she was on duty for four hours. She was experiencing heavy bleeding and severe discomfort due to her periods, compounded by a pre-existing spine (back) problem.

“There is no separate women’s rest room in the Bichhiwara police station. The welcome/reception area was empty, so I sat there to rest for a while. I did not notice when the elderly complainant arrived. As soon as I heard his voice, I sat up properly, but by then someone had already taken the photo,” Garg said.

She emphasised that there was no argument or lengthy conversation with the complainant. “I simply advised him to meet the Duty Officer (DO). My only intention was to rest because of my poor health. I had no desire to disrespect or trouble anyone.”

The Mooknayak attempted to obtain a response from a senior officer but could not reach him. Departmental disciplinary action was initiated against the constable.

SP Manish stated that this is serious incidence of indiscipline and such casual and dismissive attitude towards citizens seeking police assistance not only breaks the public's trust but also severely damages the department's morale.

Systemic Issues Raised

The incident has brought to the fore critical concerns regarding basic facilities and working conditions for women in police stations across Rajasthan and similar regions. Female personnel often face challenges related to menstrual health, lack of private rest spaces, and inadequate sensitivity in male-dominated environments.

While the viral photo sparked debates on police accountability and respect for complainants, particularly senior citizens, Garg’s account underscores the need for a more nuanced approach. Questions are being raised on whether swift suspension, based solely on one image without considering medical or infrastructural factors, addresses the root problems.