Lahore Police have introduced a new policy stating that no woman, whether she is a complainant, a witness, or an accused, will be allowed to remain inside a police station after Maghrib.
The directive has been issued as part of an effort to strengthen the protection of women and address growing public concerns regarding their safety while interacting with law enforcement.
DIG Operations Muhammad Faisal Kamran said the decision is intended to safeguard the dignity and security of women.
The announcement comes in the wake of a disturbing incident involving a police Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI), who was arrested after being accused of sexually assaulting a 19-year-old woman inside a police station. Following the incident, authorities suspended 78 police officials and initiated departmental action to ensure accountability.
Police officials maintain that the new directive is a precautionary measure designed to prevent similar incidents and restore public confidence in the police force.
However, the policy has sparked debate, with many legal experts, activists, and members of civil society arguing that the real priority should be making police stations safe, secure, and accessible for women at all hours, rather than restricting their presence after sunset. Critics believe meaningful reforms, stronger oversight, and strict enforcement of accountability are essential to ensuring women can seek justice without fear, regardless of the time of day.
