Punjab Chief Minister, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that acts of barbarity and inhuman torture by the police on accused is the result of absence of a proper system of accountability in the police department, lack of supervision by senior officers and weaknesses at police station level.
This was stated by him while presiding over a meeting here on Friday, disclosed an official. The Chief Minister said had the persons involved in torture against the accused been punished in the past, such practices would have come to an end. He also said such incidents should be condemned in the strongest terms.
"Violation of law by its custodians can not be expected in any civilised society. The incidents at Hafizabad and Chiniot reflect the typical mindset of police and the Punjab government is endeavouring to change this 'thana' culture for the last two years," he added. According to him, political interference and favouritism caused irreparable damage to police structure during the last eight years.
Stern action under the law will be taken against the officials guilty of brutalities. He also issued instructions for setting up a special committee comprising political representatives and police officers to recommend short and long-term remedial measures for reformation of 'thana' culture.
He lauded the role of media in bringing to light such incidents of torture. Punjab Senior Advisor to CM Sardar Zulfiqar Ali Khan Khosa, Punjab Law Minister Rana Sanaullah, Senator Pervaiz Rasheed, Inspector General of Police, Secretary Prosecution and other senior officers concerned were also present on the occasion.