LAHORE – Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations Lahore Muhammad Faisal Kamran has issued new instructions for Police Stations across the city regarding the treatment and presence of women. The directive states that no woman should remain inside a police station after Maghrib.
The order applies to both women visiting as complainants and those brought in as accused persons. The instruction was issued during a crime-control meeting attended by officers from the City Division.
According to the DIG, the decision is intended to protect the dignity and respect of women. He directed all police personnel to ensure that women are treated professionally and respectfully while dealing with law enforcement matters.
The latest instructions come at a time when concerns about crimes against women have increased. Authorities said the measures are aimed at improving procedures at Police Stations and strengthening public confidence.
However, the decision has also sparked criticism from some observers. They argue that law enforcement agencies should focus on making Police Stations safer for women instead of restricting their presence after sunset.
Critics believe women should be able to seek police assistance at any time without facing limitations. They say better security measures, improved monitoring, and stronger accountability would offer greater protection.
The directive follows a recent incident involving a Lahore Police assistant sub-inspector. The officer was arrested after allegations of sexually assaulting a 19-year-old woman with a mental health condition in the Ghaziabad area.
According to police, the woman had left her home and did not return for several hours. Her family began searching for her after she went missing.
During the search, a local resident reportedly informed the family that a plainclothes police official had taken the woman away on a motorcycle. The victim later alleged that Assistant Sub-Inspector Imran took her to another location and sexually assaulted her.
Following the complaint, police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the accused officer. DIG Investigation Syed Zeeshan Raza ordered the immediate registration of the case.
He also directed investigators to conduct the inquiry transparently, impartially, and strictly according to the law. Authorities said the investigation would proceed on merit without any interference.
After the incident, Lahore Police suspended 78 police officers as part of administrative action. Officials have not released further details about the reasons behind each suspension.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has repeatedly stated that the protection of women and children remains a top government priority. She has described their safety as her “red line” and has issued several directives to strengthen police response.
The chief minister has instructed police to respond within 15 minutes whenever a woman contacts the emergency helpline 15. She has also directed that an FIR should be registered within 24 hours in such cases.
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The latest directives reflect ongoing efforts to improve policing standards and restore public trust. Authorities say further reforms may be introduced to ensure that Police Stations provide a safer and more respectful environment for everyone seeking assistance.
