While one can hear complains of VIP security and a large entourage being awarded to ministers in Pakistan, the question which comes to mind is why any police escort or security was not given to a sitting Federal Minister Shahbaz Bhatti. With all the threats received due to his outspoken opinion on sensitive issues, it is a serious lapse of security. It is time that the police and other law enforcement agencies should seriously consider revamping their security protocols regarding government officials, after such an attack.
Given the current law and order situation of the country, it has become imperative that the structure and operational procedures of police should be reformed. The institution of police should be based on a structure of military, where salaries and rewards should be raised, extensive benefits should be provided to the police personnel and their family and the institution should be cleared of any political influence. The youth should be encouraged to join the ranks and the inducting procedure should be improved, so only qualified people come forward.
It is important to know about police and the duties that are bestowed on it. Unless the citizens are not made aware of the role of police in Pakistan, the trust deficit between the two will not be minimised. The role of police has always been in the interest of an average citizen.
YAHYA AHMAD
Islamabad
