IPS officer Chhaya Sharma conferred with the 2019 McCain Institute Award for Courage and Leadership. She headed the investigation team of the infamous Nirbhaya gang-rape and murder case. She has guided teams in the detection and investigation of sensitive criminal cases and protection of human rights. In 2017, Chhaya performed a crucial role in drafting Standard Operating Procedures and Guidelines to Combat Trafficking of Persons in India. The award is granted to those who manifest courage on behalf of human rights, humanitarian compassion, justice, freedom, and human dignity.
