LAHORE – Lahore Police has introduced new standard operating procedures (SOPs) concerning women, including a ban on keeping women at police stations after sunset.
Under the new directives, women must be allowed to leave police stations before sunset. Any exception in an emergency will require prior approval from the relevant senior police officer.
The authorities have also instructed police officials to complete all legal proceedings involving women during daylight hours wherever possible.
The new SOPs said that women who are complainants or accused in a case must not be summoned to any police station after sunset.
The police have further directed officers to immediately hear complaints submitted by women and give priority to resolving their concerns.
The Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations Lahore has issued formal instructions to all Superintendents of Police (SPs) and Station House Officers (SHOs) to ensure strict implementation of the new procedures.
The officials said the revised SOPs were introduced following a recent incident and are aimed at ensuring the dignity, safety and security of women dealing with police authorities.
Under the directives, police officers will be required to exercise greater caution when dealing with women at police stations, particularly outside regular daytime hours.
The new measures are intended to strengthen safeguards for women and ensure that their legal matters are handled in a secure and respectful environment.
The police authorities have directed field officers to comply with the new instructions and ensure that the procedures are implemented across Lahore.
