Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Friday emphasized the need for a united approach to address both visible and hidden threats to public safety. Speaking to religious scholars and members of the Provincial Paigham-e-Aman Committee in Lahore, she stressed that combating crime requires more than just law enforcement.
“While confronting a visible enemy is straightforward, the invisible dangers infiltrating our homes, streets, and mindsets demand equal attention,” she remarked. Maryam Nawaz highlighted that ensuring the safety of citizens, especially women and children, remains a top government priority. She added, “Infrastructure like roads and buildings mean little if people do not feel secure within their own homes.”
Referring to recent events such as the tragic killing of a girl in Sargodha, the chief minister noted her personal involvement in monitoring the case until suspects were apprehended by authorities. Although crime rates have decreased in Punjab, she pointed out that official measures alone cannot replace the essential roles of parental oversight and civic responsibility.
Maryam Nawaz also addressed other safety concerns, including children drowning in rivers during summer and fatalities caused by missing manhole covers. She explained that municipal authorities continue to replace stolen covers, but thefts recur frequently. She urged parents to supervise their children closely in markets and public spaces, cautioning, “No one can truly know what intentions lie in another person’s mind.”
In a significant development, she mentioned the collapse of a tuition centre roof in Lahore that resulted in 14 deaths, advising parents to verify the safety of buildings before enrolling their children.
Meanwhile, the chief minister commended the Punjab police for their dedication during Muharram security duties, noting that many officers worked shifts lasting up to 18 hours. She recounted an incident where a station house officer collapsed from exhaustion, underscoring the police’s commitment to public service.
Maryam Nawaz concluded by calling on everyone to contribute to building a peaceful society, emphasizing that collective responsibility is crucial for lasting safety and harmony.
