As the controversy surrounding Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz wearing the Punjab Police uniform intensified, the provincial police department issued a statement clarifying her right to wear the uniform according to Punjab Police Dress Regulations.
During the inspection of a passing-out parade of lady constables and traffic assistants at the Police Training College, Chung, CM Maryam’s choice to wear a police uniform drew both appreciation and criticism.
Read more: Maryam Nawaz attends Punjab Police parade in Police uniform
Being the first female to lead a provincial government, Maryam carried out the inspection in a uniform that fit her perfectly, wielding the police baton while atop a jeep amidst the inspiring tunes of the police band.
The Punjab Police, via their official communication platform, expressed that the move was widely celebrated by police personnel as a show of solidarity. They shared numerous messages from officers praising the gesture.
Furthermore, the police department cited a notification from January 30, 2024, permitting the provincial governor and chief minister to wear the uniform on formal occasions such as parades or while visiting police establishments, as a means of encouraging police personnel.
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The department affirmed its dedication to enhancing law and order and continuing counter-terrorism efforts, as directed by the chief minister during a subsequent meeting at the Police Training College Chung, Lahore.
Amidst this, a citizen named Waqar Ali filed a plea against CM Maryam in a Lahore court, arguing against individuals wearing the uniform of an institution. The court requested the petitioner to submit a report from the police station’s front desk and postponed the hearing until April 29.
Notably, among the critics, opposition leader in the National Assembly, Omar Ayub Khan, criticized Maryam’s act as non-serious, expressing concerns that such actions could undermine the country’s image.