The Ministry of Home Affairs has announced awards for 463 police personnel across various states and central organizations in recognition of their exemplary work. These officers will receive the Union Home Minister’s Excellence Medal for 2024, honoring their high professional standards.
In a moment of pride for Punjab, SSP Ashwini Ghotyal from Khanna district is the only officer selected from the state. This medal, awarded on the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, aims to promote excellence and motivation within police and security forces across India.
An IPS officer from the 2016 Punjab cadre, Ashwini Ghotyal is among the few recognized nationwide for exceptional work in investigation, special operations, and forensic science. Originally from Karnataka, she secured her position by achieving the 625th rank in the 2016 UPSC examination.
Notable Achievement in Batala Shooting Case
Ghotyal’s award particularly recognizes her success in resolving a high-profile case in June 2023. While stationed in Batala, she swiftly led the investigation into an attack on Shiv Sena leader Rajiv Mahajan, his son, and his brother. Within two weeks, Ghotyal’s team arrested two suspects, Jaspreet Singh from Tarn Taran and Dalbir Singh from Amritsar. The case, claimed by the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) as retribution for a separate incident in Canada, demonstrated her determination and expertise in ensuring justice.
SSP Ashwini Ghotyal’s achievement highlights Punjab Police’s commitment to law enforcement excellence and serves as an inspiring example for her colleagues.