K-P Assembly passes amendment requiring CM's approval for police transfers, operations

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly has passed the Police Act Amendment Bill 2024, granting the Chief Minister greater authority over police operations, including the transfer of officers of Grade 18 and above, which will now require the provincial chief executive’s approval.

The bill, introduced by government member Akbar Ayub, replaces a previously submitted draft. Under the amendment, the Chief Minister’s directives on law and order must be implemented by the police.

Additionally, two members from the Public Safety Commission will act as observers during police equipment procurement.

The amendment also makes significant changes to the Public Safety Commission, where an Additional Sessions Judge is replaced by an MNA.

The Speaker of the Assembly will appoint seven MPAs to the commission, with four from the government and three from the opposition. The government will also appoint seven independent members, including one from a minority group.

A Public Safety Committee will be established in Peshawar for complaints, while a complaints authority will be set up at the divisional level to handle police-related grievances. Members of the commission will serve a four-year term.

The bill aims to enhance the Chief Minister’s oversight of both general and specialised police matters, ensuring greater transparency and accountability within the police force.