Pakistan’s Shielded Corruption

Asem Mustafa Awan

Islamabad: The image we see is a stark reminder of a harsh reality – the erosion of trust in those sworn to uphold the law.

In Pakistan, the “land of the pure,” a pervasive culture of police corruption casts a long shadow, creating a situation where the powerless become prey to the very institutions meant to protect them.

Low salaries and a lack of accountability fuel a system where bribes become commonplace.  At every checkpoint, the fear of harassment, even violence, from trigger-happy officers compels ordinary citizens to pay a hidden tax.

This fosters a “might is right” mentality, where the legitimacy of law enforcement is replaced by the chilling reality of armed intimidation.

The human cost of this corruption is immeasurable. Justice becomes a luxury only the wealthy can afford. Investigations stall, the innocent suffer, and a sense of helplessness permeates society.  The very purpose of law enforcement – to safeguard the vulnerable – is tragically subverted.

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However, amidst this darkness, flickers of hope remain. There are honest officers within the police force who strive to uphold their oath. Citizen movements demanding reform are gaining momentum.  Anti-corruption initiatives, though nascent, offer a glimmer of change.

The path to a more just and equitable system is long and arduous.  It requires a multi-pronged approach.  Police reforms must prioritize training, improve working conditions, and eliminate the tolerance for bribes.

Independent oversight bodies with strong investigative powers are crucial.  The justice system needs to be strengthened to ensure swift and fair trials

But reform cannot succeed without public trust.  Breaking the cycle of fear and extortion requires fostering communication and cooperation between the police and the community.

Empowering citizens with their legal rights and encouraging them to report misconduct are essential steps.

The image may paint a bleak picture, but it also serves as a catalyst for change.

By acknowledging the problem and amplifying the voices of those demanding reform, we can pave the way for a future where the shield symbolizes protection, not intimidation, and the law serves not the powerful, but the people.

This is the true path to a “land of the pure,” where justice prevails and trust in law enforcement is restored.

The writer is a journalist based in Islamabad and writes on a wide range of issues.

Photo Credit: Sohail Shahzad