Gulabi Gang
The Gulabi Gang, meaning “pink” in Hindi, is a group of women vigilantes in India. It was started in 2006 by Sampat Pal Devi in Banda District, Uttar Pradesh. The women work to protect other women from domestic violence, sexual violence, and oppression, and they also oppose political corruption and the abuse of lower-caste people, especially Dalits.
By 2014 they claimed about 270,000 members aged 18–60. They use both non-violent and, when needed, violent methods. They say many of their actions have helped people and they want women to have money, education, and political power. Some members have won local elections, even though they often clash with local authorities. The group has drawn a lot of media attention and is officially based in Banda.
In the early 2000s, Banda was a poor district in a state with high rates of gender-based violence, child marriage, dowry abuse, and low female literacy. Many of the people they protect are from very low-caste groups who face discrimination. The area also suffers from government corruption and lack of education.
The Gulabi Gang has grown since 2010 and works in Uttar Pradesh and nearby Madhya Pradesh. Women join by paying 100 rupees. Members wear bright pink saris and carry wooden sticks called lathis for protection. Men cannot join, but many male villagers help with support tasks or accompany the group for safety.
Local leaders or “commanders” run stations and report to the head of the group. In 2014 Sampat Pal Devi was removed as head amid accusations of financial problems; she denied them. Suman Singh Chauhan became the new head.
The gang has staged protests and used media to pressure officials. Examples include forcing a police station to file a complaint, protesting against a deteriorating road, and exposing corruption in fair-price shops. In 2011 they supported a 17-year-old rape survivor by organizing large demonstrations.
Their approach can include surrounding government offices in a tactic called gherao. They often carry lathis, and many wear pink sarees because the color commands respect and creates unity.
Besides safety work, they promote economic and educational empowerment. They have started small businesses in crafts, candles, herbal products, pickles, and wedding services to help women earn money. They even started a school in Banda in 2008 and encourage families to educate girls. They also help illiterate or lower-caste people apply for government aid and explain how to participate in local government through the Panchayati Raj Act.
The Gulabi Gang sometimes clashes with police and politicians, but many members have entered politics themselves. Pal Devi once ran for office but did not win; she declined party backing to stay independent. By 2010 about 21 members were elected to local panchayats.
They work with partners like Vitalect and Social Solution India. The group has won awards such as the Kelvinator GR8! Women Award and the Godfrey Phillips Bravery Award.
This page was last edited on 2 February 2026, at 07:04 (CET).