Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s decision to wear a police uniform at a passing-out parade event has sparked a debate. While some lauded her move as a show of solidarity with the force, others criticized it as inappropriate. However, the Punjab Police has released a statement asserting that the chief minister is entitled to wear the uniform as per regulations.
Donning a khaki shirt, bottoms, and a hat, Chief Minister Nawaz inspected a parade of lady constables and traffic assistants at the Police Training College, Chung. Her appearance in uniform has garnered both appreciation and criticism. The law enforcement department has stated that female police officers are celebrating the event and have shared pictures of the chief minister in the uniform.
The Punjab Police has also shared a notification issued in January 2024, which allows the provincial governor and chief minister to wear the uniform on formal occasions. This includes parades, addressing police darbars, and visiting police establishments. The department has expressed its commitment to improving the law and order situation and continuing counter-terrorism efforts as directed by the chief minister.
Despite the police’s defense, a citizen named Waqar Ali has filed a plea against Chief Minister Nawaz in a Lahore court. The petitioner argues that a person cannot wear the uniform of an institution without being a member. The court has asked the petitioner to submit a report from the police station’s front desk and adjourned the hearing to April 29.
Opposition leader in the National Assembly, Omar Ayub Khan, has also criticized Chief Minister Nawaz for wearing the police uniform. He termed her action as non-serious and stated that the country was being made a laughing stock through such childish acts.
