Islamabad Police propose 250 ASI posts in major structural shake-up

-- Plan to replace constable positions aims to strengthen field command but raises concerns within ranks

ISLAMABAD: In a significant bid to modernise policing and strengthen field command, the Islamabad Capital Territory Police is considering the creation of 250 new Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) posts as part of a sweeping internal restructuring plan, officials revealed on Saturday.

The proposal, currently under review, seeks to replace around 320 constable positions with ASI slots to improve supervision, enhance patrol efficiency, and ensure quicker decision-making at the ground level. Senior officers believe the move would address long-standing gaps in mid-tier leadership within the force, particularly in high-pressure operational environments.

According to an official memorandum issued from the office of the Inspector General of Police, Islamabad, the case has been forwarded to the Establishment Division of Pakistan through the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control for formal approval.

The interior ministry has sought additional details and directed authorities to submit comprehensive documentation in the prescribed format to expedite the process.

Officials familiar with the plan say the restructuring is part of a broader effort to upgrade policing standards in the federal capital amid evolving security challenges. Islamabad has witnessed rising demands on law enforcement in recent years, ranging from counterterrorism vigilance to urban crime control, prompting authorities to reassess the force’s organisational structure.

Policing experts suggest that increasing the number of ASIs—who typically play a critical role in supervising constables and leading patrol units—could significantly improve operational effectiveness. “Strengthening the middle command layer can enhance accountability and ensure better coordination during field operations,” one analyst noted.

However, the proposal has also triggered concerns within certain ranks of the police force. Critics argue that reducing constable positions may affect recruitment opportunities and morale at the entry level, potentially creating discontent if not managed carefully.

Authorities, meanwhile, maintain that the restructuring is aimed at long-term efficiency rather than downsizing, emphasising that better-trained supervisory staff would ultimately benefit overall policing outcomes.

If approved, the plan would mark one of the most notable structural overhauls in recent years for Islamabad Police, signalling a shift towards a more command-driven and professionally tiered law enforcement model.