Prayagraj: In a surprise move, the SP (Fatehpur) Abhimanyu Mangalik has announced special leave for around 700 women police personnel ranking from constables to sub-inspectors so that they could celebrate Karwa Chauth to be observed on Oct 29 (Thursday) hassle-free.Women cops posted at 23 police stations, 40 police outposts, police offices and other police wings have been given a special day’s relaxation for the festival.The SP has also asked his subordinates including Deputy SPs and SHOs to make alternative arrangements to maintain law and order. Thana cops have also been asked to prepare a list of women cops who expressed interest in availing leave for the special day.This was the first time that a district police chief had announced leave for women police personnel on duty.The SP told TOI that he first allowed special leave for women cops on Karwa Chauth during his tenure as SP Bhadohi.He said, “Women cops, once granted special leave, would be able to observe fast and perform puja without any hindrance and feel more relaxed.” Kumari, a woman constable, said that she would stay at home to celebrate Karwa Chauth for the first time in her six-year-long police service. “It is like a luxury for me. I have even applied mehndi on my hands for the festival.”Women cops are all ready to enjoy the special leave granted to them. Another woman constable said, “It is a tough job, especially for the women, as they also have to manage homes. They hardly get to spend quality time with their family. This surprise leave was granted to them so that they could enjoy the festival.”“Majority of us observe fast on Karwa Chauth every year but it was always a hurried affair due to work. I would run home and perform puja but this time we will enjoy the festival. Many women observe nirjala vrat (without water) which is more difficult without a holiday,” said Amrita, another woman constable.
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