Netflix’s ‘Delhi Crime’, a hard-hitting seven-part series which goes deep into the investigation of the 2012 Nirbhaya gang rape and murder case, has received immense appreciation for its brilliant execution. Written and directed by Richie Mehta, the series is set in the aftermath of the crime that shook the collective conscience of the nation. It traces the story of police officer Vartika Chaturvedi leading a team to nab the culprits.
The series immortalised Chhaya Sharma, the police officer who inspired the character Vartika Chaturvedi played by actress Shefali Shah. While investigating the Nirbhaya case, Chhaya was the DCP (South District) of Delhi Police. She is now Deputy Inspector General (Investigations) with National Human Rights Commission.
Chhaya Gets Prestigious Courage And Leadership Award
Making Indians proud, Chhaya Sharma this month was awarded the prestigious Courage and Leadership Award instituted by McCain Institute for International Leadership at Arizona State University, USA. Each year, this award is given to honour an individual or group who has stood steadfastly for fundamental values and has inspired the world with their exceptional bravery.
Congratulations to human rights defender and anti-trafficking crusader Chhaya Sharma for receiving the 2019 Award for Courage and Leadership by the McCain Institute. #USIndia pic.twitter.com/JoAbejN0zS
— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) May 9, 2019
Chhaya’s unparalleled determination to nab the culprits of the Nirbhaya case makes her a true hero. Although she is best known for cracking the Nirbhaya case, there are several other challenging cases she has solved throughout her career.
“I am honoured to receive the award which acknowledged the entire body of work that I have done and not just the most discussed case. I am humbled by this international honour, but at heart, I continue to be a person who nurtures empathy and kindness in an otherwise tough and hard-hitting profession. This allows me to sleep in peace,” Chhaya said in a conversation with The Logical Indian.
Chhaya has solved several notorious cases, including the PNL Nidhi scam, in which a Chennai-based company allegedly collected Rs 68.50 crore from more than 13,000 investors, and defaulted in repayment. This was solved when Chhaya was SSP (Crime and Intelligence).
Later, as SSP (Law and Order), she busted many interstate gangs and solved various murders, apart from being engaged in heavy law and order duties.
Chhaya cracked Delhi’s Defence Colony’s bank van heist case, recovering more than looted Rs 2.36 crore. She also cracked the 2012 Baby Falak case and the Sultanpuri gang rape case. She has arrested a number of notorious criminals like Narender Don and Raju Hakla.
“As DCP outer district, I was given charge of the wildest and notorious district in 2010, where I was able to create new teams and solve several heinous cases of murder and dacoity. Catching one active group of snatchers, I was able to solve 22 cases of robbery and snatching. I was given the sobriquet of ‘Gangster Eliminator DCP’ as I caught various notorious gangs, bringing down the crime rate. I solved a number of cow slaughter and dumping cases,” Chhaya said.
Chhaya was the first female SSP (Law and Order), Puducherry, and first female DCP Outer. She was also the first female DCP South district, Delhi.
“I am extremely passionate about my profession as it gives me the opportunity to help people in distress. Each time I relieve other people’s stress, I feel satisfied and contented to have done my duty. For me, this profession is a blessing from God and an ode to my father, who I have grown up seeing helping others in need despite scarce resources,” said Chhaya.
The Logical Indian appreciates Chhaya Sharma for being an epitome of courage and congratulates her on her achievement.