Controversy erupted over Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz wearing a police uniform, prompting an official response from the provincial police.
The Punjab Police confirmed that according to the Punjab Police Dress Regulations, she is “entitled to wear the police uniform.”
Chief Minister Maryam wore the uniform during an inspection at a passing-out parade for lady constables and traffic assistants at the Police Training College, Chung. The event drew both praise and criticism.
As the first female to lead a provincial government, CM Maryam donned the uniform and carried a police baton. She reviewed the parade from a jeep, accompanied by the police band’s music.
The Punjab Police expressed on X (formerly Twitter) that personnel celebrated the gesture as a significant act of solidarity. They reported receiving many positive messages from officers.
Additionally, the police shared photos of CM Maryam in uniform, highlighting the enthusiasm among female officers for the event.
A recent notification, dated January 30, 2024, permits the provincial governor and chief minister to wear the uniform at formal events like parades, police gatherings, or visits to police facilities, aiming to boost morale.
Read: Noor Bukhari: The Camera Doesn’t Capture Maryam Nawaz’s True Beauty
Following the parade, the police reiterated their commitment to enhancing law and order and continuing counter-terrorism efforts as directed by CM Maryam.
However, the move has faced legal challenges. A citizen, Waqar Ali, has petitioned a Lahore court to act against CM Maryam for wearing the uniform, arguing that it’s inappropriate for a non-member to wear an institutional uniform.
The court has deferred the hearing until April 29, requesting further reports from the police.
Opposition leader Omar Ayub Khan criticized the chief minister’s actions, labelling them non-serious and detrimental to the country’s image.
