In a first, kin of promoted police personnel are invited to ceremony to place new rank insignia or star on officers’ shoulders. From police constable to head constable, head constable to assistant police sub-inspector (ASI), ASI to police sub-inspector (PSI), PSI to assistant police inspector (API), and API to police inspector (PI)
Bhikaji Dhondu Khadapkar’s wife Kiran (right) and a senior officer (left) attach the star of his new rank of assistant police sub-inspector, yesterday. Pic/By Special Arrangement
For the first time for the Mumbai police, families of officers across various ranks are being invited to take part in promotion ceremonies. The move, introduced by Police Commissioner Deven Bharti, seeks to introduce a more personal and emotionally resonant format for departmental promotions.
Promotions across ranks — from police constable to head constable, head constable to assistant police sub-inspector (ASI), ASI to police sub-inspector (PSI), PSI to assistant police inspector (API), and API to police inspector (PI) — are being conducted with family involvement and ceremonial significance.
Mahesh Patil, regional additional commissioner of police, promotes an officer from the rank of head constable to assistant police sub-inspector on June 2. Pic/By Special Arrangement
In the latest round of promotions, 213 personnel were elevated from police constable to head constable, while 169 were promoted from head constable to assistant police sub-inspector. In a symbolic and emotional gesture, family members — alongside senior police officials — now place the new rank insignia or star on the officer’s shoulder, acknowledging both the officer’s dedication and the unwavering support of their loved ones.
‘Earlier events were formal’
Promotions from PSI to API and API to police inspector are being facilitated by top officials, including the commissioner of police and joint commissioners. Promotions at the constabulary level, such as constable to head constable and head constable to ASI, are being conducted at the zonal level under the supervision of zonal deputy commissioners of police (DCPs) and regional additional commissioners of police.
“Earlier, these events were done in a small way at the zonal level and were largely formal. Now, the focus is on turning them into cherished family moments,” said Mahesh Patil, regional additional commissioner of police. “This is Commissioner Deven Bharati’s vision — to recognise not just the officer’s achievement but the journey shared with their family.” Patil added, “This move is a step to tell everyone that we are one family — the Mumbai Police. All of us are closely knit and connected.”
Widespread appreciation
The emotional impact of this shift is already visible. Bhikaji Dhondu Khadapkar, 57, who was recently promoted to ASI, has served in the force for 32 years. “This is the first time in my career that my family witnessed such a moment. They were so proud to see me getting promoted. I was happy to see the pride in their eyes,” said Khadapkar, currently posted at the Crime Branch. He has previously served at Juhu, Jogeshwari, and Vakola police stations and is set to retire next year.
The initiative has been widely appreciated across the department, with many officers calling it a morale booster and a meaningful gesture that strengthens the bond between the force and their families. “It’s a big morale booster. When your family is part of such a proud moment, it makes you feel more connected — not just to them, but to the department as a whole,” said one of the newly promoted officers.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
