North-West Province Police - British India?
 

It’s been suggested by a knowledgeable forum member in the British section that this badge is possibly that of the North-West Province Police, in British India, as they apparently used an identical central device (star and 'VI' cypher') on their buttons, but within a circular wreath and without a crown. It seems that they became the United Provinces Police in 1902, or thereabouts.

Can anyone please confirm definitively if this is indeed the case? Any further information as to the likely period of wear would be gratefully received.

It may well be a Victorian badge of the NorthWest Provines and Oudh Police. There are some variations though. See attached photo for similar badges.