By Abdul Ghafoor Sarohi
Sindh Police, one of the country’s oldest institutions, is facing a significant crisis despite its historical legacy. The public, who once saw it as a haven, is rapidly losing confidence in it. In the past, Sindh Police’s role was one of pride for every citizen. However, now, when it should ensure public service and maintain peace, the institution is increasingly burdened by allegations. Particularly, accusations of harshness toward the poor, leniency toward the influential, and alleged support for drugs and other social evils have seriously tarnished its image.
The political influence and interference based on personal interests, along with failure to maintain impartiality in judicial matters, have also left a stain on the honor of Sindh Police. The current Inspector General, Ghulam Nabi Memon, now has a historic opportunity to address this institutional crisis, restore the dignity of Sindh Police, and steer it back to its core mission and duties. This requires strong policies and reforms under his leadership, ensuring that the police serve as a true sanctuary for the public.
The current situation of Sindh Police and the need for reforms is a critical demand of the times so that it can fully serve the people and restore the dignity of its glorious past.
Role of Police in Society and the Current Challenges:
The role of Sindh Police has often raised questions concerning public trust. In many cases, it is perceived as an adversary to the poor and a servant to the powerful. This perception has distanced the police from its core duty as a protector and public service institution. The trend of intimidating the poor unfairly and working on the directives of influential figures continues, causing Sindh Police to deviate from its intended role.
The Problem of Rural and Urban Dacoits – A Concerning Situation:
In parts of Sindh, the presence of both rural and urban dacoits is a clear example of this issue. Rural dacoits may sometimes show restraint, while urban dacoits, bolstered by their powerful connections, act mercilessly. This discrepancy is a glaring indication of inequality within the police force, where severe gaps in the law enforcement policies are evident. The indifference, negligence, and political influence within the police force have failed to provide protection to the public.
Private Jails and Use of Private Forces:
Another significant allegation against Sindh Police is that certain SHOs have set up private jails, where innocent individuals are detained and coerced through violence. The use of private forces also illustrates the misuse of power within the police, where tasks related to extortion are reportedly carried out. Former Additional IG Ghulam Qadir Thebo highlighted this illegal activity in a letter to SSP Adeel Chandio, underscoring the internal issues within the force. Court cases have been filed in this regard, but no substantial outcome has emerged.
Political Influence, Anti-Social Activities, and Restoring Police’s Image:
The police have frequently been accused of supporting anti-social activities and drug dens. Senior police officials themselves have acknowledged the presence of issues within the force, including affiliations with anti-social elements. Failing to monitor the growing drug dens and to provide legal protection to the public has also become a serious concern for the police’s reputation.
Reflecting on Restoring Public Trust:
For current IG Ghulam Nabi Memon, restoring the police’s integrity is a major challenge, requiring effective policies and reforms. Serious steps must be taken to demonstrate impartiality and integrity so that the police become a genuine protector of the public rather than an institution of connections. It is essential to free Sindh Police from political influences and completely re-establish it as a public service institution.
Through institutional reforms, Sindh Police must adopt a new approach, increase transparency, and advance in public service. The police need to form a renewed commitment to the public, transforming it from a tool of power and influence to a true symbol of justice and the rule of law, securing a safer future for the people of Sindh.
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