First female SHO appointed in Kurram
In a groundbreaking move, the tribal district of Kurram in Pakistan has appointed its first-ever Christian female Station House Officer (SHO), Samreen Amir, at the Para Chinaar Police Station. This significant development is expected to have far-reaching impacts on addressing women's issues and promoting inclusivity in the region.
The decision to appoint Samreen Amir as SHO reflects a progressive step taken by the Kurram police department. District Police Officer Kurram, Muhammad Imran, expressed that this move aims not only to provide a safe space for women to report crimes but also to tackle inheritance problems, domestic violence, and other local issues faced by women in the region.
Kurram district already boasts a Woman Reporting Center, established in 2020, dedicated to addressing women's complaints. With Samreen Amir's appointment, the police department is taking another stride towards empowering women and minorities in the province.
Inspector General of Police Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Akhtar Hayat Khan, said that the appointment, stating that it exemplifies their commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment. He also highlighted other instances of promoting women in policing, such as appointing a female District Police Officer in Batgram and Chitral and increasing the presence of female officers in traffic police.
Samreen Amir, a 35-year-old Christian woman, expressed her enthusiasm for the challenging role, acknowledging that her appointment is a testament to diversity within the police department. She has already conducted numerous raids and actively participated in police exercises within the Kurram district. Her top priority remains aiding voiceless and vulnerable women in the region.
According to district police officer that we also Deputed Female Muharar in police Station as well.
Saima Qadeer, activist for social and women's issues, told to Express Tribune that the appointment, considering it a significant achievement. She commended the KP police for providing opportunities to minorities and demonstrating a positive image, despite the security challenges faced in tribal areas.
Samreen Amir's appointment as the first Christian female SHO in a tribal district marks a momentous step towards fostering inclusivity, gender equality, and minority representation within the police force in Pakistan.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 14th, 2023.