Fresh directives issued after custodial abuse case to strengthen protection measures
LAHORE: Lahore Police have introduced new standard operating procedures (SOPs) governing the handling of women at police stations following the recent custodial rape and death of a female beggar that triggered widespread public concern and demands for stronger safeguards.
Under the new directives issued on Thursday, women will no longer be allowed to remain at police stations after sunset except in exceptional circumstances. The Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations Lahore instructed all Senior Superintendents of Police (SPs) and Station House Officers (SHOs) to ensure strict compliance with the revised protocols across the city.
According to the new guidelines, police officers must complete all legal proceedings involving women during daylight hours. Female complainants and women accused in criminal cases will not be permitted to enter or remain at police stations after sunset unless special authorization has been granted by a senior officer.
Priority handling of women’s complaints
The revised SOPs also require police personnel to register and address complaints submitted by women without delay. The DIG Operations directed officers to hear women’s grievances immediately and resolve their cases on a priority basis to improve public confidence in law enforcement.
Officials said the changes aim to provide a safer environment for women seeking police assistance while ensuring greater accountability in police procedures involving female complainants and suspects.
Enhanced safeguards at police stations
Police authorities stated that the new measures are part of broader efforts to strengthen protective protocols and improve the treatment of women within police facilities. In cases where a woman must remain at a police station after sunset due to unavoidable circumstances, prior approval from a senior police officer will be mandatory.
The revised procedures follow intense scrutiny of police practices after the recent custodial abuse case and are intended to prevent similar incidents in the future. Authorities emphasized that all police stations will be required to implement the SOPs immediately, while supervisory officers will monitor compliance to ensure the directives are fully enforced. Officials added that the reforms reflect the department’s commitment to improving transparency, strengthening accountability and enhancing the safety and dignity of women during all interactions with law enforcement agencies.
