Visually impaired Rina Patil’s journey from a banker to a one-day police commissioner

Rina Patil, a 40-year-old Bank of Baroda employee and a visually impaired individual, has proven that disabilities do not limit one’s ability to lead and achieve. Her inspiring journey from navigating her banking career with the help of Braille to serving as a one-day Police Commissioner in Pimpri-Chinchwad showcases her resilience and determination.

Rina Patil lives alone in Pune and hails from Tasgaon taluka in Sangli. She has two elder sisters, one based in Mumbai who runs a hospital equipment supply business and another who owns a tours and travel business. Rina lost both her parents two years ago but remains deeply grateful for everything they did for her. A graduate in English Literature, she also possesses a basic understanding of law, order, and the police force. Blind since birth in 1983, Rina’s life is a remarkable testament to resilience and determination.

Rina’s appointment as a one-day police commissioner on January 26, 2021 came as a result of her connection with the police force during an event dedicated to visually impaired individuals. She recalls the moment with immense pride. “I never thought about getting such a big honour. As a blind person, I can never see the police but have always heard about them. Being appointed as a one-day police commissioner was a golden opportunity and a remarkable experience,” she said.
Krishna Prakash sir had sent a notice to all blind associations that he’s planning to give a one-day CP charge to a very well deserving blind person. So, this was sent on January 20 and I got to know on January 26 morning around 10 am and we had to be present there at 1pm as the programme was scheduled at 1pm. Then I reached there and registered myself on the spot and then I surprisingly got the chance to be the Police Commissioner for a day. The duty ends at around 10 or 11pm.”
 

Rina shares her one-day experience as she says, “After being appointed as a one-day police commissioner, I was tasked with managing a protest related to a rape and murder case and working alongside the Crime Branch and Forensic Team. The entire day was spent addressing this critical situation.”

She also adds, “It allowed me to connect with common people and gain insights into how the police system works. As a blind individual, this role gave me a unique perspective on leadership and demonstrated that disabilities do not limit one’s ability to take on significant responsibilities.”

In her professional life at the Bank of Baroda, Rina highlights the role of Braille in empowering visually impaired individuals, “Braille ensures accessibility, allowing us to read account statements, use Braille-enabled ATMs, and handle important documents independently. It fosters inclusivity and equal opportunities,” she said.
 

Rina Patil also says, “I stay motivated by living my life happily and maintaining a clear balance between my personal life, social work, and professional commitments, ensuring they never overlap. Social work is my passion, and I dedicate time to supporting blind schools and colleges, encouraging and helping blind children in every possible way.

I owe my stability in Pune and my work to my uncle and aunt, Kamal Mandan Purandare and Mandan Purandare, who never let me feel different and always treated me with love and equality. At my workplace in the bank, my seniors have been a constant source of support and guidance, motivating me to excel in everything I do.”
Advancements like screen readers, voice recognition software, and AI-powered tools have significantly reduced the reliance on Braille. These innovations make banking faster and more user-friendly,” Rina said, adding that smartphones with accessibility features have further simplified processes for visually impaired individuals. “My colleagues at the bank are always cooperative and willing to help, fostering a positive and inclusive workplace,” she concluded.

Source:https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/pune/pimpri-chinchwad-police-on...