On Wednesday, the Police observed a special day dedicated to those who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. However, Police in Pakistan deserve much better. For far too long, they have been treated as a lackadaisical institution sans professionalism and service delivery. Owing to their colonial legacy of being used as an arm of the state to impose its writ, police have become a force instead of a service. As a result, the Police Act of 1861 has not been fully supplanted even after 73 years of independence. Why have the Police reached this point and do not get the recognition that they deserve in Pakistan? This is because political interference and meddling has diluted the efficiency of this institution. Instead of providing operational autonomy, political masters use police to further their political interest and clout. This makes the police a force designed to maintain law and order instead of serving the community. Furthermore, owing to deep political interference, police officers are not provided with tenure security and are left at the whims of political leaders. Instead of implementing people-friendly policies, they are pressured to work in accordance with the wishes of political leaders. As a result, … Continue reading Why the Pakistan Police Deserve Better