CM Maryam calls for cultural reset in Punjab Police, advises them to address citizens as 'sir'

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed the Punjab Police to undergo comprehensive “grooming” as part of a broader reform push, stressing that officers must treat citizens with dignity and respect.

Speaking during a high-level televised meeting, the chief minister instructed newly appointed Inspector General Abdul Kareem to focus on improving the conduct and communication skills of police personnel. She cited repeated complaints from the public regarding what she described as intimidating behaviour by officers in the field.

Maryam emphasised that officers must be trained not only in procedure but also in attitude and body language. She said police personnel who patrol or interact directly with citizens should be taught how to speak appropriately and engage respectfully. Officers who fail to address members of the public as “sir”, “madam”, “sahib” or “sahiba” would not be permitted to deal with citizens, she warned.

Referring to common complaints, the chief minister noted that some officers use dismissive language such as “oye” in public interactions, calling it unacceptable. She underscored that the dignity of ordinary citizens must not be violated under any circumstances.

Maryam also called for accountability within the force, urging officers to acknowledge mistakes rather than deny wrongdoing. She said the police exist to serve the public, not to threaten or intimidate, and announced that monthly performance evaluations would be conducted for each officer.

She further directed that complaints from citizens be registered immediately and instructed that officers on duty wear body cameras to ensure transparency in their dealings.

Earlier, on February 12, IG Abdul Kareem chaired a meeting at the Central Police Office to review implementation of reforms under the “Fast, Fearless, Transparent Justice” initiative. It was decided that body cameras would be rolled out to police and traffic personnel in phases over the next two months.

The IG also announced the installation of “panic buttons” outside police stations to allow citizens to lodge complaints instantly in cases of misconduct or inaction. He reiterated instructions that citizens visiting police stations, checkpoints, offices and Khidmat Marakaz must be addressed respectfully at all times.

Counselling sessions and structured training programmes are also being planned to reshape public perception of the force and improve overall standards of conduct across the province.