Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sweta Shrimali |
| Date of Birth | 13 April 1985 (Navbharat Times) |
| Profession | Indian Police Service (IPS) Officer — Gujarat Cadre (Oneindia Hindi) |
| Spouse / Family | Husband: IPS Officer Sunil Joshi (Oneindia Hindi) |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
Introduction
In an era when law enforcement demands integrity, courage, and resilience, one name shines through the darkness — Sweta Shrimali. Known as “Lady Singham”, she is widely respected for her stern discipline, no-nonsense policing, and unflinching commitment to justice. With her rise through the ranks of the Indian Police Service (IPS), culminating in her appointment as the superintendent of Sabarmati Central Jail — home to high-profile criminals — Sweta’s story is both inspiring and emblematic of the evolving role of women in Indian policing. This article traces her life, career, controversies, achievements, and more, offering a comprehensive view of a woman who commands respect in one of India’s toughest environs.
Early Life & Education
Sweta Shrimali was born on 13 April 1985. (Navbharat Times) She hails from Rajasthan, though detailed public records of her parents’ names and early childhood remain scarce. What stands out is her academic inclination: after completing her schooling, she pursued undergraduate studies and earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree. (TV9 Bharatvarsh)
Motivated to serve the nation, she then began preparing for the prestigious civil services examinations. Her hard work paid off when she secured 79th All-India Rank in UPSC exam, earning her a place in the 2010 IPS batch. (TV9 Bharatvarsh) This rigorous academic and competitive foundation underpinned the discipline, determination, and dedication that would become her hallmarks as a police officer.
Family Details
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Spouse: Sweta is married to Sunil Joshi, who is also an IPS officer. (Oneindia Hindi)
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Both belong to the Gujarat cadre (post-allocation) and serve in key law enforcement roles. At the time of reporting, Sunil Joshi serves with the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS). (TV9 Bharatvarsh)
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Details about her parents, children (if any), or siblings are not publicly available — Sweta appears to maintain a low profile regarding her personal life beyond her professional commitments.
Because there is no verified public information about her net worth, real estate, or other financial holdings, we cannot responsibly estimate her wealth. This is common for many serving IPS officers whose personal financial disclosures remain private.
Career Trajectory
Entry into the Police Service
After clearing the UPSC exam in 2010 (79th All-India Rank), Sweta joined the IPS and was allotted the Gujarat cadre. (TV9 Bharatvarsh) From the outset, her reputation was built on efficiency, integrity, and discipline — traits often lauded in senior officers.
Initial Postings & Early Work
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Her early assignment included serving as Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Zone-4, Ahmedabad. (Oneindia Hindi)
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She was subsequently posted as Superintendent of Police (SP) of the tribal-dominated district of Dang, where she managed law-and-order challenges, tribal matters, and complex policing tasks with sensitivity and firmness. (Oneindia Hindi)
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Later, she served with the Western Railway, Ahmedabad as SP — gaining exposure to policing in transit zones, railway security, and coordination across civil infrastructure. (Navbharat Times)
Each of these roles added to her experience and prepared her for more critical, high-stakes assignments.
Appointment as Jail Superintendent — The “Lady Singham” Era
In May 2023, Sweta Shrimali’s career took a defining turn when she was appointed as the Superintendent (full-time in-charge) of Sabarmati Central Jail. (Navbharat Times) This was not an ordinary posting — Sabarmati jail is one of Gujarat’s most high-security prisons, housing dangerous and high-profile criminals. Among them: the notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, linked to multiple high-stakes cases. (TV9 Bharatvarsh)
Under her leadership, the jail witnessed an overhaul in discipline and security protocols. Media reports highlighted her strict supervision: when she speaks of enforcement, even hardened criminals “thar-thar कांपते” (tremble) — a testament to her uncompromising stance. (Navbharat Times)
Her strong stance, firm discipline and leadership earned her the moniker “Lady Singham” — a nod to her fearless policing and control over high-risk law-and-order environments. (Jan Satta)
Transfer to Central Deputation (Intelligence Bureau)
In December 2024, the Gujarat government relieved her from Sabarmati Jail. She was posted on central deputation and assigned to the Intelligence Bureau (IB) as Deputy Director. (Navbharat Times)
This move — from jail administration to national-level intelligence — underscores both her capabilities and the trust placed in her by authorities. It positions her for potentially more influential roles impacting national security. As of last reports, she continues to serve with IB. (Navbharat Times)
News, Public Profile & Controversies
Sweta Shrimali’s rise — particularly her stint at Sabarmati Jail — attracted significant media attention. Her tenure coincided with heightened scrutiny on high-profile criminals. Here is a breakdown of major public narratives connected to her:
High-Profile Criminal Under Supervision: Lawrence Bishnoi
When she took charge of Sabarmati Jail, one name that created widespread interest was Lawrence Bishnoi, a gangster linked to high-profile murders and threats. (TV9 Bharatvarsh) Given the sensitive nature of his incarceration, ensuring strict surveillance, zero leaks, and no compromise became critical. As reports noted, Sweta kept a close watch on his every move, leading to a perception of jail discipline being tightened under her “Lady Singham” regime. (Navbharat Times)
This earned her public acclaim — many viewed her as a strong symbol of law-and-order who dared to stand tall in the face of high-risk criminals. She became an example for women officers nationwide.
Transfer and Reassignment Debate
However, her transfer from Sabarmati Jail in December 2024 sparked debate. Some media and public observers saw it as a routine bureaucratic reshuffle; others speculated that handling a high-stakes prisoner like Bishnoi — and ensuring no security lapses — may have been deemed too sensitive for a long-term posting. Whatever the reason, the fact remains: she was sent on central deputation to IB as Deputy Director. (Navbharat Times)
Because of the nature of intelligence postings, many details about her current work remain undisclosed — which also means limited public scrutiny or commentary. This shroud of secrecy — while expected in IB assignments — somewhat reduces her public visibility compared to her “Lady Singham” days.
Public Perception & Image
Across news outlets, the tone when referring to Sweta reflects respect and admiration. Words like “सख्त”, “ईमानदार”, “तेज़-तर्रार”, “डिसिप्लिन-प्रेमी” consistently appear. (Navbharat Times) For a police leadership role, such a public image — especially for a female officer — holds significance in a country where policing remains heavily male-dominated.
Controversy-wise — there is no credible public record of any allegations of misconduct, corruption or human rights abuses associated with her name. The significant “controversy,” if any, revolves around media speculation and public interest when she was moved from Sabarmati Jail at a critical time. But nothing has surfaced as an official controversy or charge.
Awards & Achievements
As of the latest publicly available information, there are no reports of formal national awards (like President’s Police Medal) conferred upon Sweta Shrimali. Her recognition comes primarily in the form of media accolades and public reputation — being dubbed “Lady Singham,” praised for jail discipline, and entrusted with central deputation.
Still, for a 2010-batch IPS officer to rise to a high-security jail superintendent and then secure an IB posting within 14 years is in itself a noteworthy professional achievement. It reflects her competence, reliability, and ascending career arc.
Why Sweta Shrimali Matters — Her Significance
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Symbol of Women in Law Enforcement: In a male-heavy domain, Sweta’s rise — coupled with her “stern but fair” public image — serves as an encouraging example for aspiring women officers.
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Setting New Benchmarks for Prison Administration: Managing a high-security jail like Sabarmati, with hardened criminals, required exceptional discipline and administrative skills. Her success there challenges older notions of jail administration.
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Bridge Between Ground-level Policing & National Security: Her movement from field policing to the national intelligence wing (IB) underscores her adaptability and strategic value.
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Public Confidence in Police Leadership: In times of widespread skepticism about law enforcement, officers like Sweta help restore faith — by being transparent, firm, and committed to rule-of-law and discipline.
FAQ — People Also Ask
Who is Sweta Shrimali’s husband?
Her husband is IPS officer Sunil Joshi. Both belong to the Gujarat cadre. (Oneindia Hindi)
What is the “Lady Singham” nickname about?
When Sweta became superintendent of Sabarmati Jail — a maximum-security jail housing dangerous criminals — her firm discipline and unflinching enforcement of law earned her the moniker “Lady Singham.” (Navbharat Times)
Where was Sweta Shrimali posted as of 2024?
In December 2024, she was transferred from jail administration to central deputation, joining the Intelligence Bureau (IB) as Deputy Director. (Navbharat Times)
Which high-profile criminals were under her supervision?
One of the most talked-about criminals under her watch was gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. (TV9 Bharatvarsh)
Does Sweta Shrimali have children?
There is no credible public information available regarding children or other immediate family beyond her spouse.
Has she received any national awards or medals?
As per public records till date, there are no reports of her receiving national police medals or other formal awards. Her recognition remains mostly in media reputation and career progression.
What was her first major assignment in Gujarat Police?
Her early assignment included serving as DCP, Zone-4, Ahmedabad. She later served as SP in Dang district, and as SP for Western Railway, among other posts. (Oneindia Hindi)
Conclusion
Sweta Shrimali’s journey — from a UPSC aspirant to a high-ranking IPS officer, from handling tough districts to commanding one of Gujarat’s most sensitive jails, and finally to joining the national intelligence apparatus — embodies dedication, courage, and consistent performance. Her story resonates particularly because she breaks stereotypes: a woman officer, commanding respect, administering prisons, managing high-risk criminals, and upholding law-and-order with stern discipline.
In a world where headlines often highlight sensationalism, Sweta’s career is a reminder of quiet professionalism. Her “Lady Singham” image isn’t built on flash, but on firm resolve, discipline, and a deep sense of duty. For young aspirants — especially women — her trajectory offers inspiration. For citizens — faith that law enforcement can be trustworthy, strong and fair.
References
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“Who is Sabarmati Jail’s Lady Singham IPS Sweta Shrimali …” — OneIndia (Hindi) (Oneindia Hindi)
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“कौन है वो लेडी सिंघम …” — Navbharat Times (Navbharat Times)
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“IPS Sweta Shrimali moved to IB” — Ahmedabad Mirror (translated) (Google Translate)

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