Anti-riot force of 10,000 trained personnel to be established in Punjab
LAHORE: The Punjab cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, strongly condemned the violence and attacks on law enforcement agencies during the PTI protest on November 24. In a heartfelt gesture, Fateha was offered for the martyred personnel, and a series of relief measures were approved for the victims and their families.
Relief Packages Announced for Martyrs and Injured Personnel
The cabinet approved a total compensation package for the affected officers. Special package of Rs29 million would be sanctioned for the family of a martyred constable of Punjab Police, and Rs1 million for each injured police and Rangers personnel.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz condemned the violence saying that sacrifices have been made by the law enforcers. “172 policemen were injured during the brutal PTI protest and many of them are still in critical condition,” she said.
She condemned the brutality, saying that groups of PTI workers armed with nailed sticks and rifle butts inflicted severe injuries. Chief minister narrated a tragic case of an SP whose skull and brain got severely damaged. She added that young children were left behind by the martyred constable. “This level of violence and cruelty is unprecedented,” she remarked.
Special Force to Combat Riots
In response to the spiraling violence, the cabinet okayed a 10,000-strong special security force, trained in riot control, and the maintenance of law and order. Directions were given to strengthen security along with riot-prone areas of Dera Ghazi Khan and Mianwali.
Kite Flying Declared a Non-Bailable Offense
The Punjab cabinet also amended provincial laws that make kite flying a non-bailable offense. This is part of a more general drive to ensure public safety.
Smog and Fertilizer Management
She also appreciated the government’s relevant work against smog and commended Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb and her team for taking prompt action. She further stated that there was neither fertilizer shortage nor price hike in Punjab and 87% of the wheat sowing target was achieved.
Facilitating Minorities and Pilgrims:
The cabinet was appreciated by Minorities Affairs Minister Ramesh Singh Arora for making outstanding arrangements for Sikh pilgrims. The chief minister announced proposals to construct three motels in Nankana Sahib to further facilitate the pilgrims.
Economic and Development Initiatives
The Punjab cabinet approved many economic projects to accelerate growth in the province:
Rs3.44 billion allocated for building model bazaars in 13 districts, providing discounted necessities to citizens.
Interest-free loans for establishing a Vehicle Inspection and Certification Station.
Revival of the Horse and Cattle Show, with an allocation of Rs1.5 billion to celebrate Punjab’s cultural heritage.
Housing and Education Reforms
Government employees will benefit from the construction of three-story residential buildings in Chauburji Garden. The cabinet also approved the Foundational Learning Policy of Punjab 2024, aimed at enhancing spoken English and reading skills in government schools.
Collaboration with Iraq
Punjab Police will train 210 Iraqi police officials in an international collaboration, which indicates the growing role of the province in global security initiatives.
Conclusion
The latest initiatives by the Punjab cabinet show a balanced approach towards dealing with the challenges of law enforcement, public welfare, and economic growth. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the province will experience significant improvements in public safety, infrastructure, and social welfare.
