Rashmi Karandikar, a name synonymous with resilience, dedication, and groundbreaking contributions to law enforcement, stands as a beacon of inspiration in the Indian Police Service (IPS). As a Maharashtra-cadre IPS officer, her career is a compelling narrative of courage, intellectual prowess, and an unwavering commitment to justice. From her early days patrolling the streets of Thane to her pivotal role in tackling cybercrime and property fraud investigations, Rashmi Karandikar’s journey reflects the essence of a modern-day police officer navigating complex challenges with grace and determination. Let’s dive into the life of this remarkable woman who has carved her legacy in the annals of Indian policing.
Early Life and Education: The Roots of Resilience
Born into a family with a legacy of grit and determination, Rashmi Karandikar hails from Maharashtra, a state known for producing stalwarts in various fields. Her grandmother, a woman of humble beginnings, made clay bricks to fund her education and later became the principal of a municipal school. This spirit of perseverance trickled down to Rashmi’s mother, also a school principal, who instilled in her the values of hard work and education. Growing up, Rashmi was surrounded by stories of struggle and triumph, which shaped her worldview and ignited her ambition to serve society.
Rashmi’s academic journey is as impressive as her professional one. She pursued a Bachelor of Science in Statistics, showcasing her analytical mind, followed by a Master’s degree in Sociology and Anthropology. Her thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there—she later earned a Ph.D. in Sociology, a testament to her intellectual depth. But it was her fascination with the cyber world that set her apart. She equipped herself with certifications like Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI), and a Diploma in Criminology and Criminal Justice from IIT Kanpur. This blend of social sciences and technical expertise would later define her unique approach to policing.
Entry into the IPS: A Calling to Serve
Rashmi Karandikar’s foray into the Indian Police Service began in 2004, a decision fueled by her desire to make a tangible difference in society. Initially, she aspired to join the civil services through the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), a dream inspired by her grandmother. Though she missed the UPSC mark, she cleared the state-level exams and joined the Maharashtra Police, embarking on a journey that would see her rise through the ranks with remarkable agility.
Her early years in the force were marked by hands-on experience and mentorship from senior officers like IPS Archana Tyagi, whom Rashmi credits as her guiding light. Posted in Ratnagiri, she handled her first major case—a multiple murder investigation—that tested her mettle. Sitting beside a decomposed body for the first time, she confronted the gritty reality of police work, emerging stronger and more determined.
Rising Through the Ranks: A Career of Impact
Rashmi’s career trajectory is a dynamic tapestry of diverse roles and high-stakes responsibilities. As Deputy Superintendent of Police in the Bhiwandi-Thane area, she patrolled the night streets with vigilance, her jeep a symbol of safety in a region prone to unrest. A memorable incident from 2008 captures her alertness: spotting a suspicious biker trailing a truck, she tailed them discreetly, coordinating with nakabandi teams to ensure law and order. Her ability to think on her feet shone during the 2006 communal riots in Bhiwandi, where she led a small team to protect a police station from a mob of 10,000, preventing violence with sheer presence and strategy.
Her expertise in cybercrime became a cornerstone of her career when she joined the Cyber Crime Branch as Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP). Within eight months, she cracked high-profile cases, from Nigerian job fraud rings to the Pradhan Mantri Yojna Loan scam involving fake apps. Her team’s arrest of locals running extortion and blackmail rackets—operating through over 200 fake social media and bank accounts—highlighted her knack for unraveling complex digital crimes. Beyond enforcement, Rashmi championed cyber awareness, conducting webinars and sharing case studies to educate the public, earning her accolades for bridging the gap between police and society.
Her tenure as DCP Cyber also thrust her into the spotlight during the sensitive “data leak” case involving senior IPS officer Rashmi Shukla. Tasked with investigating the leak of confidential reports, Rashmi Karandikar navigated this high-profile probe with professionalism, though it led to her transfer to Civil Defence as Superintendent of Police (SP) in 2021 amid a larger reshuffle of 180 officers in Maharashtra.
Personal Life: Strength Amid Challenges
Behind the uniform lies a woman balancing a demanding career with personal trials. Rashmi met her husband, Purushottam Chavan, in college, where he worked as an executive in an investment firm. Initially supportive, their marriage faced turbulence as Chavan’s legal troubles emerged. By 2025, he was embroiled in multiple fraud cases—defrauding victims of over Rs 32 crore through fake government quota property schemes and a Rs 263-crore Income Tax Refund scam investigated by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Arrested and in judicial custody, his actions cast a shadow over Rashmi’s career.
In response, Rashmi filed for divorce, citing mental cruelty, financial harassment, and incompatibility, distancing herself from his actions. The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) summoned her in March 2025 to probe financial transactions linked to Chavan, including Rs 3 crore transferred to her account. Cooperating fully, she appeared before the EOW, maintaining her integrity amid scrutiny. This personal upheaval, while challenging, underscored her resilience—a trait that defines her both as an officer and an individual.
Legacy and Recognition: A Trailblazer’s Impact
Rashmi Karandikar’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, she was honored with the prestigious President’s Police Medal for her exemplary service, a recognition of her relentless fight against crime and her role in empowering women in the force. Today, as she serves in Civil Defence, her legacy is one of breaking barriers—be it in cyber policing, crisis management, or inspiring the next generation of officers.
Her story is far from over. With a career spanning over two decades, Rashmi continues to evolve, blending her sociological insights with cutting-edge policing techniques. Whether patrolling the streets at night or decoding digital frauds, she remains a symbol of what it means to serve with honor, intellect, and heart.