Punjab Chief Minister, Shahbaz Sharif has said that maintenance of law and order is essential for improving investment prospects as well as economic and commercial activities. He said it is the fundamental responsibility of police to maintain law and order, and protect life, property and honour of citizens, for which police ought to work with full commitment and dedication.
He directed police and all security institutions to work in a well-coordinated manner as well as improve police patrolling system besides keeping a watchful eye on suspicious elements.
The Chief Minister also issued instructions for foolproof security of all institutions and sensitive places besides reviewing security plan for the protection of foreigners. He announced that provincial law minister will hold law and order meetings twice a week whereas he himself would preside over a meeting in this regard on weekly basis.
The Chief Minister was chairing a high-level meeting to review law and order situation in the province, here on Friday. Provincial Law Minister Rana Sanaullah Khan, Advisor Jehanzeb Burki, Members Assembly Mian Marghoob Ahmed, Col. Shuja Khanzada (Retd), IG Police, Secretaries of Home, Prosecution and Law Departments, Commissioner and DCO Lahore, Additional IG Special Branch, CCPO Lahore and other concerned officers were present.
The meeting reviewed various aspects of Rasool Park tragedy. Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said maintenance of civic peace and protection of life and property of citizens is the top priority of Punjab government and all possible steps are being taken for this purpose.
He said that the whole nation is united and determined against terrorism, and this scourge will eventually be eliminated from the country.
He directed that effective steps should be taken for the protection of all institutions, sensitive places, foreigners and those who come from other provinces. He said that the best security companies should be contacted for foolproof security arrangements at different institutions and commercial centres besides deputing trained guards at these places should also be considered. He pointed out that installation of CCTV cameras at important places, institutions, roads and crossings is highly essential and effective steps should be taken in this regard.
The Chief Minister stressed the need for making full use of Elite Force for the purpose for which it was set up. He also directed that effective arrangements should be made regarding security of mosques and Imam Bargahs, during the holy month of Ramazan, especially at the time of prayers and "Trawees". He said Punjab can be transformed into a haven of peace through collective efforts so that investment and commercial activities could be promoted in the province.