The Future of Policing in India: Harmonizing Labour Rights, Gender Equity, and Digital Transformation

Abstract

India’s police personnel endure excessive workloads, gender bias, and lack of cyber training under laws inherited from the colonial era. Although it is still the primary law regulating policing, the Police Act of 1861 does not uphold basic labor rights, advance gender parity, or prepare modern law enforcement for the digital age. This study critically examines the long-standing issues that police officers face, such as 14–16 hour work shifts, mental health strains, and inconsistent overtime compensation. It does this by drawing on constitutional provisions, International Labour Organization standards, and famous rulings like Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan and Sheela Barse v. State of Maharashtra. It also draws attention to structural obstacles that impede the hiring, retention, and safety of female police. The study also evaluates inequalities in access to cybercrime training and digital tools, which are crucial for modern policing. In order to create a democratic, inclusive, and prepared for tomorrow police force in India, the research promotes a complete Police Labour Code, standardized digital training frameworks, and gender-sensitive welfare policies using an array of doctrinal analysis, empirical data, and case studies.