LAHORE - Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abdul Kareem has said that the force remains firmly committed to gender equality and the protection of women’s rights, as he paid tribute to the mothers, sisters, and daughters of martyrs and ghazis on International Women’s Day. In a message issued on the occasion, the IG said that under the vision of Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Chief Minister of Punjab, crimes such as sexual harassment, rape, violence, and exploitation against women are considered a “red line,” with a strict zero-tolerance policy in place. He stated that protecting women’s rights and ensuring immediate justice while preserving their dignity remain top priorities for the police. He added that prompt registration of FIRs in cases involving crimes against women and swift arrests of the accused are being ensured. The IGP highlighted the growing role of female officers in policing, saying women personnel are serving alongside male officers in maintaining law and order, crime control, and community policing.
Abdul Kareem also noted several initiatives introduced for women’s safety and welfare, including Safe Cities women’s hostels with daycare centres, driving training centres for women, Tahaffuz Markaz, Tahaffuz Manzil Foster Homes, virtual women police stations, women enclaves, and anti-harassment and violence cells. He said services such as the Women Safety App, panic button, and Helpline 15 have been launched to assist women facing harassment or injustice. The number of specialised Sexual Assault Investigation Units has also been increased, with trained female officers handling investigations under the Anti-Rape law. The IGP added that ensuring a safe, dignified, and supportive environment for women serving in the police force will remain a key priority.
(The Nation)
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