Born: 1976 (Jalpaiguri district, West Bengal)
Died: 2013
Biography:
Shanti Tigga was the first female jawan in the Indian Army. Her extraordinary fitness and skills surpassed those of her male colleagues, leading her to be awarded the title of Best Trainee in the Recruitment Training Camp. However, her life was tragically cut short when she was found dead on May 13, 2013.
Shanti Tigga hailed from the Jalpaiguri district in West Bengal and belonged to a socially marginalized Scheduled Tribe community. Growing up, she witnessed several members of her family and community being enlisted in various factions of the defense forces, which ignited her determination to break glass ceilings. At the age of 35, she enlisted in the army, defying societal expectations and proving that women are just as capable as men.
Prior to joining the Indian Army, Shanti Tigga had experienced a child marriage and spent most of her early life fulfilling the role of a housewife and mother, having given birth to two children. However, tragedy struck when her husband passed away, and as compensation, she was granted a job with the Indian Railways in 2005. For the next five years, she worked diligently at the Chalsa station in Bengal’s Jalpaiguri district.
In 2011, Shanti Tigga made the decision to join the 969 Railway Engineer Regiment of the Territorial Army. It was during this time that she discovered that women were only allowed to join the armed forces in non-combat roles, serving as officers. Undeterred by this knowledge, Tigga remained determined and became the first woman jawan in the 1.3 million strong defense forces of India.
During her training at the Recruitment Training Camp, Shanti Tigga demonstrated exceptional performance, surpassing the abilities of her male counterparts. She completed the 1.5 km run five seconds faster than the men and achieved an excellent rating by completing the 50m run in just 12 seconds. Her proficiency in handling firearms impressed her superiors, earning her the distinction of a marksman and the title of best trainee.
Tragically, Shanti Tigga’s life took a dark turn. On May 9, 2013, she was abducted by unknown perpetrators and found bound to a post near a railway track. Following this harrowing ordeal, she was hospitalized, and her hospital cabin was provided with security during the ensuing police investigation. However, just four days later, on May 13, 2013, Tigga was discovered hanging in a railway hospital. Her sudden death was ruled as suicide by the authorities.
Shanti Tigga’s life serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of women in the face of adversity. She broke barriers, shattered stereotypes, and paved the way for future generations of women to serve in combat roles in the Indian Army. Her indomitable spirit, dedication, and accomplishments have made an indelible mark on women’s history in India.
Awards:
– Best Trainee, Recruitment Training Camp