In India’s long fight against terrorism, few police leaders command the respect that IPS officer Sadanand Vasant Date does. Known nationwide as the “26/11 Hero,” he is the rare officer whose courage under fire is matched by intellect, reform-driven thinking, and three decades of service shaped by unwavering integrity.
Born on 14 December 1966 in Pune, Date’s journey began far from the corridors of power. He once delivered newspapers to support his family. Years later, he cleared the UPSC exam and joined the Indian Police Service- not merely as a job, but as a lifelong mission. His academic credentials alone would make a formidable resume- a doctorate from Pune University, a master’s in commerce, and certification as a cost and management accountant. A prestigious Humphrey Fellowship at the University of Minnesota later deepened his expertise in white-collar and organised crime.
But it was his work on the ground that cemented his legacy. Across roles — DIG in the CBI, IG in the CRPF, Joint Commissioner (Law & Order and Crime) in Mumbai, Commissioner of Mira-Bhayandar and Vasai-Virar, and Chief of the Maharashtra ATS — Date built a reputation for fearlessness and clarity of purpose. In 2024, he took over as Director General of the National Investigation Agency, the very organisation created after the tragedy that would define his heroism.
That moment of heroism came during the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. As terrorists stormed the city, Date led a small team near the Cama and Albless Hospital, blocking the gunmen from entering a building filled with women and children. He was gravely injured, yet continued directing his men, saving countless lives. For this extraordinary bravery, he received the President’s Police Medal for Gallantry.
Yet Date’s impact extends beyond battlefields. He helped create anti-terror cells at police stations across Maharashtra, strengthening grassroots intelligence. His work on India’s e-courts initiative helped modernise judicial systems nationwide.
From a modest childhood to leading India’s foremost counter-terror agency, Sadanand Vasant Date stands as a testament to what discipline, courage, and purpose can achieve. His story reminds us that true heroes don’t just confront danger- they rebuild institutions so the next generation is safer.
