The federal government, addressing growing concerns over the security and living conditions of working women in private hostels, has confirmed that digital surveillance systems are fully operational across Islamabad's accommodation facilities.
Digital Oversight in Place
Responding to a query from MNA Aliya Kamran in the National Assembly on Friday, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry stated that while the formal registration and regulation of hostels is not the direct mandate of the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police, digital records are being meticulously maintained. The Safe City and Operations Wing of Islamabad Police uses specialized software for this purpose.
The "Hotel Eye" software maintains detailed records of residents, while the "Travel Eye" system tracks travelers, enabling real-time monitoring and reporting to bolster security measures. The minister emphasized that this system is already functional.
Addressing Incidents and Enhancing Response
On the issue of safety and reported offences, Chaudhry assured the House that any cognizable crime against working women is dealt with strictly according to the law. He disclosed a serious incident involving the murder of a woman, Eman Feroz, at a ladies' hostel. An FIR (No. 261 dated April 19, 2025) under Section 302 was registered at Ramna Police Station. The accused was arrested, sent to judicial custody, and the case is currently under trial.
To improve grievance redressal, the government has established multiple helplines:
- 15 (Emergency Helpline)
- 1715 (IGP Complaint Cell)
- 1815 (Women’s Helpline)
Furthermore, an Online Women Police Station has been set up at Safe City Islamabad to handle complaints and incidents specifically concerning women.
Proactive Measures for Women's Safety
Outlining a comprehensive strategy for better oversight and facilitation, the minister listed several corrective steps being implemented:
Women Facilitation Desks are being established at police stations to offer a safe and gender-sensitive environment. The capital is also seeing the deployment of technology-enabled police stations manned by trained female officers.
Innovative solutions like "Police Stations on Wheels" or mobile policing units are being used to provide on-the-spot services and complaint registration. A dedicated women's police station, operated entirely by female officers, is already operational.
To ensure inclusive policing, joint patrolling by male and female police officials is being conducted across Islamabad. The minister also mentioned a recent survey of Islamabad residents, coordinated with the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, which is compiling records of female residents.
These announcements come amid persistent public and parliamentary concerns regarding the welfare and security of working women residing in private hostels in the federal capital.
