KARACHI:
The country’s progress hinges not only on political stability, economic growth and good governance, but also on the protection of people’s fundamental rights. Among all institutions, the police have a particularly vital role in ensuring public safety, maintaining law and order and providing justice to individuals, regardless of their wealth, political standing or social status. Unfortunately, ordinary citizens still approach police stations with fear rather than confidence, hope for justice or expectation of strong action against perpetrators. The police must adopt a public-friendly approach to change this widespread perception. Every citizen deserves respect, protection and fair treatment at a police station.
The primary responsibility of police officers is not merely to enforce the law, but also to safeguard people’s lives, property and personal belongings. Police stations must be safe spaces where complainants feel secure and receive respectful treatment. Their complaints must be registered without unnecessary delays, harassment or discrimination of any kind. Individuals from poor and vulnerable segments of society should receive the same attention that influential people receive at police stations. Furthermore, police officers must be held accountable for any misuse of authority, corruption or negligence.
Effective policing requires professionalism, public cooperation, transparency and a strong sense of responsibility. Police officers and personnel should be trained to treat people politely, resolve disputes fairly and protect citizens from criminals and exploitation. Public trust is indispensable for effective law enforcement. The incumbent government should, therefore, prioritise reforms in the police department, improve working conditions for officers and ensure accountability at all levels. Ultimately, the police department earns public respect not through fear and authority, but by protecting citizens, respecting their dignity and standing by them in times of need and danger.
Awais Qarni
Lahore
