Queens, New York – Captain Pratima Bhullar Maldonado, who was born in Punjab, India, and moved to Queens, New York, at the age of nine, has been recognized for her groundbreaking service in law enforcement. New York State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar honored Captain Maldonado for her historic appointment as commanding officer of the NYPD’s 102nd Precinct in South Richmond Hill — a role she assumed in February, making her the first Sikh woman and the first South Asian woman to lead a precinct in New York City.
Assemblywoman Rajkumar praised Maldonado for her leadership in maintaining safety across neighborhoods like Woodhaven and Richmond Hill, and for her efforts to build trust between law enforcement and the local community. “I call her our community’s Punjabi warrior,” Rajkumar posted on X, commending the captain’s dedication to public service and her role in breaking social and professional barriers.
Captain Pratima Bhullar Maldonado is the NYPD’s first female South Asian captain. This year, she became the first Sikh woman ever to lead a precinct in NYC, right here in my district. I call her our community’s Punjabi warrior.
— Jenifer Rajkumar (@JeniferRajkumar) August 6, 2025
I was proud to honor her last night for keeping… pic.twitter.com/2vkAmvK2iy
Captain Maldonado’s career has been marked by a series of firsts: she was the NYPD’s first female Sikh sergeant, the first female Indian lieutenant, and the first South Asian female uniformed executive. Promoted to captain in 2023, she is also a mother of four and a strong advocate for greater representation of South Asians and women in policing. Organizations such as United Sikhs have hailed her as an inspiration and a role model for future generations.
