Sub-inspector

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Sub-inspector (SI) is a junior police rank used in several South Asian countries, including India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. It is based on the British police system. An SI usually heads a small police sub-station or assists an inspector.

Duties and powers:
- Often the first officer who can file a charge sheet in court and usually acts as the investigating officer.
- Supervises investigations and maintains law and order.
- May work in traffic, crime, special branches, or other units; in some states they serve as Station House Officers in rural areas.

Rank and insignia:
- SI is above Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) and below Inspector.
- Insignia: two five-point stars with a red and blue striped ribbon on the shoulder.

Recruitment and powers:
- Recruited directly into the police; many SIs have higher educational qualifications.
- In some states (e.g., Kerala) there is a Grade SI after 25 years of service; they wear the same insignia but lack full investigative powers.
- In Central Armed Police Forces and state forces, the rank title and pay are the same, but powers can vary.
- There are specialized SIs in areas such as bands, motor transport, or telecommunications.

Notable:
- In 2024, Manvi Madhu Kashyap became India’s first openly transgender police sub-inspector.

Other notes:
- The SI rank exists in other countries with similar insignia and roles, and is generally the lowest officer rank that can file charges in court.