In a significant development, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif cautioned on Saturday that the province confronts a more serious security threat from adjacent provinces than from neighboring countries. Speaking at an AI technology event in Lahore, she emphasized that dangers were emerging from the tri-border area and border regions with other provinces, prompting the strengthening of joint checkposts to counter these risks.
She assured that maintaining law and order remains a top priority, with all available resources being mobilized to eradicate terrorism and extremism. The chief minister noted that security forces had previously endured heavy casualties at checkposts, as militants were equipped with superior weapons and night-vision gear compared to police. However, she highlighted that these checkposts are now fortified with bulletproof protection, thermal imaging, and night-vision cameras, which have significantly lowered the risk of casualties.
Maryam Nawaz stated that tough decisions have been taken to uphold peace throughout the province. Wherever the authority of the state was challenged, decisive action was implemented. She pointed out that the katcha (riverine) areas, once notorious for terrorism and crime over several decades, have been completely cleared and transformed into crime-free zones.
She claimed that crime rates in Punjab have dropped by as much as 70%, underscoring the essential role of law enforcement alongside development efforts. “Roads and projects are being constructed, but what use are they if someone’s livestock, motorcycle, or car is stolen, or if a poor person loses their savings?” she questioned.
The chief minister also announced a vigorous campaign against corruption, revealing that irregularities detected in the Suthra Punjab programme had led to suspensions. A helpline has been established for citizens to report corruption, and written directives have been issued to inspectors general, regional police officers, and other officials to eliminate corrupt elements. Additionally, police officers have been equipped with body cameras to monitor their conduct during duty hours. “Even if corruption involves Rs100, we will pursue it relentlessly,” she asserted. “Wherever corruption exists, it will not be tolerated.”
Maryam Nawaz further addressed the misuse of religion by certain groups to incite hatred, which had previously diverted police attention from other responsibilities. Nevertheless, she noted that Muharram, Eid Miladun Nabi, and other religious festivals had passed peacefully. She also stressed that crimes against minorities will no longer be accepted.
Regarding the anti-encroachment drive, she clarified that vendors were not merely displaced but provided with alternative spaces to sustain their livelihoods. She acknowledged initial challenges in enforcing helmet laws and lane discipline but observed that the situation has improved considerably. She added that educating pedestrians about traffic and road safety remains necessary.
Concluding, the chief minister declared that protecting citizens is her personal responsibility despite the risks involved. She highlighted that billions have been invested to transform Punjab into a technology-enabled province. “If the people do not trust the government, we will fall behind,” she warned.
