In a world where career transitions often seem daunting, Muskan Sawhney’s journey from a beloved radio jockey in Jammu to a Station House Officer (SHO) in Pulwama, stands as a beacon of inspiration. Currently on probation under the Jammu and Kashmir Police Services (JKPS), she symbolizes perseverance, public service, and the growing role of women in leadership.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Raised in Jammu’s Janipur area in a conventional family, Muskan’s life was shaped by her family’s financial struggles and a strong value system. Despite the odds, she was determined to support her family early on. While pursuing her graduation from 2017 to 2020, she joined All India Radio’s Yuva Tarang in 2018. Her engaging voice and powerful interviews with bureaucrats, artists, and social figures quickly gained popularity. “Those interviews struck a chord with people,” she reflects.
Choosing a Career in Police Services: A Turn Driven by Respect
Interestingly, becoming a police officer wasn’t Muskan’s childhood dream. It was her father’s lifelong pursuit of dignity and societal respect that planted the idea in her mind. “For my father and me, respect was more important than money,” she explains. Without access to formal coaching or premium study materials, she juggled multiple jobs—radio shows, Zumba and yoga classes, and home tuitions—to fund her civil service preparation.
Eventually, her relentless efforts bore fruit. When she cleared the JKPS exam, she was both shocked and elated. “I didn’t expect to qualify, but I was ready to give it my all,” she says.
Current Role as SHO Kakapora, Pulwama
Today, Muskan Sawhney is posted as SHO Kakapora in South Kashmir’s Pulwama district. Despite being on probation, her leadership and community engagement have already started making a difference. One of her top priorities is crime prevention among youth. “If our children fall into crime, what kind of future will we have?” she asks thoughtfully.
Through school visits, awareness programs, and community talks, she emphasizes rehabilitation and communication rather than punishment. “Dialogue is my strongest tool,” she insists.
Leveraging RJ Skills in Law Enforcement
Muskan’s background as an RJ has become an asset in her police duties. “Previously, I used to talk at people through the microphone. Now, it’s a conversation. We speak, we listen, and together we find solutions,” she shares.
Her strong communication skills allow her to connect with people on a personal level, building trust and encouraging community participation. In her words, “The pen is mightier than the sword,” a philosophy she lives by.
Women in Policing: Leading with Empathy and Strength
As a woman SHO, Muskan believes her presence has helped other women feel more comfortable approaching the police. “There’s a level of empathy women can bring into law enforcement. But I also believe both male and female officers today are evolving into more compassionate listeners,” she adds.
She stresses that policing is no longer just about authority but about approachability, emotional intelligence, and trust-building.
Support System: Family and Mentors
Muskan credits her strength to her mother’s discipline and values. “I admire my father, but my mother has had a deeper influence on shaping who I am,” she admits. Her younger sister is her emotional rock, while on a professional front, she looks up to her Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) as guiding mentors.
A Message for Girls: Dream Boldly and Fearlessly
Muskan encourages young girls to dream big and chase their aspirations, no matter the hurdles. “Many girls are afraid their dreams will not come true. But dreaming gives you a vision. Don’t give up—communicate with your parents and gain their support,” she urges.
She emphasizes the importance of having a dream, trusting the process, and staying respectful yet assertive. “Don’t hurt your parents, but don’t kill your dreams either,” she advises.
Advice for Parents: Become Your Child’s First Friend
In a powerful message to parents, Muskan says, “Be your child’s friend. Talk to them, understand their ambitions, support them. Even if they fail, they’ll return to you stronger.” This message resonates especially in today’s generation where mental health, career anxiety, and societal pressure are rampant.
Breaking Stereotypes and Creating Change
Muskan Sawhney is breaking stereotypes in more ways than one. From the glamour of broadcasting to the grit of policing, her career reflects the spirit of modern Indian women who dare to redefine norms.
She stands as a role model for aspirants across the country—demonstrating that you can rise above limitations with determination, passion, and the right mindset.
Muskan’s journey from RJ to SHO is more than just a career shift—it’s a powerful story of ambition, self-belief, and the desire to create change. She represents a new wave of public servants in India, who bring empathy, communication, and courage to their roles.
As more young people, especially women, look to serve society with purpose, Muskan’s story shines as a real-life example that dreams do come true—with the right blend of resilience and action.
