The Indian Supreme Court, in its landmark ruling in 2020, granted Permanent Commission (PC) to women officers in the Indian Army, recognizing the invaluable contributions of women in the armed forces. As part of the judgment, the Court highlighted the exceptional achievements of women officers, citing Colonel Sofiya Qureshi as a prime example of excellence and dedication. Colonel Qureshi, who co-led the briefing for Operation Sindoor on May 8, 2025, is a trailblazer in the Indian Army, exemplifying the achievements of women in what has traditionally been a male-dominated domain.
Recognition by the Top Court
In its judgment on February 17, 2020, the Supreme Court declared that the blanket exclusion of women from key roles in the Army was not justifiable and was unconstitutional. The Court emphasized that women officers had served with distinction and merit, and their roles should no longer be limited to staff assignments. The ruling allowed women officers, including those in Short Service Commission (SSC), to be considered for Permanent Commission, opening doors to higher positions and broader career advancement within the military.
The Court also expressed appreciation for the contributions of women officers, citing the example of Colonel Sofiya Qureshi as a testament to their professionalism and capability. Her pioneering journey reflects the evolution of gender roles in the Indian Army, challenging traditional perceptions and paving the way for future generations of women in defense.
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi’s Trailblazing Career
Colonel Qureshi, a distinguished officer in the Corps of Signals, is a living example of how women in the military have shattered glass ceilings. Born in 1974 in Vadodara, Gujarat, she pursued a Master’s degree in biochemistry from Manonmaniam Sundaranar University before joining the Indian Army. Over the years, she has built a reputation for her leadership, operational expertise, and resilience.
In 2006, she served as a military observer during the United Nations Peacekeeping Operation in Congo. In a war-torn region, Colonel Qureshi was tasked with monitoring ceasefires and ensuring peace in volatile areas. Her work involved humanitarian activities, such as providing aid to civilians and helping to stabilize conflict zones. This mission proved to be a defining moment in her career, showcasing her ability to manage complex and high-stakes situations.
One of Colonel Qureshi’s most significant achievements came in 2016, when she became the first woman officer to lead a contingent in a multi-national military exercise called Exercise Force 18. The exercise, which focused on military interoperability among ASEAN nations, was hosted by India and marked a historic moment for women in the armed forces. Her leadership in such a prestigious and large-scale exercise demonstrated her ability to operate at the highest levels of military strategy and international cooperation.
Her leadership skills, technical expertise, and diplomatic acumen were evident as she represented India in multi-national peacekeeping operations, and her role in the Exercise Force 18 showcased her ability to collaborate with armed forces from multiple countries.
A Symbol of Progress and Equality
The Supreme Court’s recognition of Colonel Qureshi was a powerful affirmation of the ongoing changes in India’s military, where women are no longer confined to conventional roles but are given opportunities to lead and excel. Colonel Qureshi’s journey reflects the values of resilience, determination, and excellence, which have become synonymous with the modern Indian Armed Forces.
During the media briefing on Operation Sindoor on May 8, 2025, Colonel Qureshi stood alongside Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force, both of whom briefed the media about the Indian Armed Forces’ precision missile strikes on nine terror targets across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The briefing was delivered in the aftermath of India’s retaliation for the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, in which 26 civilians were killed. The successful Operation Sindoor operation was a major demonstration of India’s resolve to counterterrorism while exercising restraint in broader conflict escalation.
Expanding Roles for Women in the Military
The Supreme Court’s 2020 ruling came at a time when India was witnessing significant changes in its military structure, including the expansion of roles for women officers. The exclusion of women from key combat positions was ruled as unconstitutional, and the Court directed that women officers be granted permanent commissions in the Indian Army. Colonel Qureshi’s leadership in Operation Sindoor and her earlier achievements reflect the progress made in empowering women within the armed forces.
The journey of women officers, including Colonel Qureshi, has contributed immensely to shaping the future of gender equality in India’s defense sector. Women in the Indian Armed Forces have proven themselves in combat zones, humanitarian missions, and peacekeeping operations, challenging stereotypes and carving their own space in areas once dominated by men. They have demonstrated that leadership and expertise know no gender.
The Future of Women in Defense
Colonel Qureshi’s accomplishments continue to inspire future generations of women to pursue careers in defense, breaking down barriers and setting new standards for excellence. As women like her lead from the front, the path for others to follow becomes clearer, and the Indian Army grows stronger, more inclusive, and more capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st century.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s acknowledgment of Colonel Sofiya Qureshi in 2020, alongside the broader decision to grant Permanent Commission to women officers, marked a significant milestone in India’s journey toward gender equality in its military. Colonel Qureshi’s achievements, both as a military leader and as a symbol of progress, reflect the ever-evolving role of women in national defense. As India faces new challenges, women like Colonel Qureshi will continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of the Indian Armed Forces. Their success is not just a victory for gender equality but for the country as a whole, showcasing the strength and unity that come from diverse leadership at all levels.
