Punjab CM’s Uniformed Gesture Sparks Debate
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s appearance at a women constables’ passing-out ceremony in police uniform stirred controversy. Addressing the graduating class, she emphasized the aim for gender parity in the police force and highlighted the importance of serving the oppressed.
However, her decision to don the uniform drew criticism from opposition leaders and sparked debate on social media. While some questioned the move’s logic, others recalled similar actions by her father, Nawaz Sharif. A Lahore-based lawyer even filed a petition against her for ‘impersonating’ a police officer.
In response, both the PML-N and Punjab police defended her, citing rules allowing chief ministers to wear uniforms on formal occasions. The Punjab Information Minister stated that such gestures enhance respect for the police force. The Punjab police department shared rules permitting chief ministers to wear uniforms for specific events, receiving positive feedback from officers.
Former police officials also noted that wearing the uniform without deceptive intent isn’t a violation of the law. Despite the debate, Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s gesture resonated positively among some police personnel, seen as a show of solidarity.
Punjab CM’s Uniformed Gesture Sparks Debate