In a decisive move to tackle escalating lawlessness, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif convened an urgent emergency meeting on Wednesday, expressing grave concern over a sudden spike in criminal activities across the province. The session, attended by top police officials, saw the chief minister personally present videos of recent incidents, highlighting her strong displeasure and demanding immediate explanations from responsible officers.
Setting Targets and Issuing Directives
During the high-level gathering, specific targets were established for proactive initiatives aimed at curbing crime effectively. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif did not mince words, reprimanding officials for their failure to control criminal elements in key districts such as Sheikhupura and Faisalabad. She issued clear directives to Regional Police Officers (RPOs) and District Police Officers (DPOs), emphasizing the need for full cooperation with the Crime Control Department (CCD) to enhance security measures.
Addressing Officials via Video Link
Connecting with RPOs, City Police Officers (CPOs), and DPOs through a video link, CM Maryam Nawaz described the rising crime trend as "shameful and alarming." She acknowledged significant efforts to transform Punjab into a safer region but stressed that complacency was unacceptable. "The growing incidents of murder, robbery, kidnapping, and disappearances are absolutely unacceptable," she asserted, adding that even minor offenses must be prevented to maintain public trust.
Eliminating Political Interference
The chief minister underscored that the police force had been liberated from all forms of political interference, enabling them to focus solely on delivering results. "We have faced criticism from all sides due to 100 per cent merit-based policing, but no police officer should now fear political pressure," she explained. She contrasted this with past practices where appointments were often based on political affiliations, noting that such meddling has been completely eradicated to foster a more professional environment.
Personal Involvement and Resource Allocation
Highlighting her hands-on approach, CM Maryam Nawaz revealed that she personally conducts final interviews for police officer appointments and has ensured they receive ample resources. This includes a substantial budget, modern weapons, advanced equipment, and sufficient vehicles. "Even my family expressed concern when I took ownership of CCD, but our goal is to ensure a sense of protection and peace for the public," she stated, vowing to implement all necessary steps, including strict disciplinary actions, to improve law and order.
Specific Incidents and Broader Concerns
Referencing particular cases, the chief minister labeled a video of a car battery theft in Gulberg as "shameful" and pointed to worsening crime in Gujrat, where passengers were robbed after a bus was halted. "Such incidents create fear; where robbery can occur, murder can also happen," she warned, illustrating the potential for escalation. Additionally, she expressed concern that crimes persist despite the establishment of Safe City projects province-wide, and described statistics on narcotics-related cases as "embarrassing."
Record Budget and Future Commitments
In a significant disclosure, CM Maryam Nawaz noted that the police have been allocated a record Rs527 billion budget over the past two years, an unprecedented amount in Punjab's history. This investment underscores the government's commitment to bolstering security infrastructure. She also cited an incident where a Speedo bus conductor assaulted a child, remarking that such acts would not occur if there were a genuine fear of the law, reinforcing the need for stringent enforcement.
The emergency meeting concluded with a renewed focus on accountability and proactive strategies, as the chief minister reaffirmed her dedication to restoring public safety and order across Punjab.
