Qasim Jamshed
Islamabad: Open forums held by the DIG in Islamabad police stations’ jurisdictions fail to gain public trust. An open forum held in the jurisdiction of Sangjani Police Station revealed the reality behind the claim of “justice at your doorstep.” Citizens complained about the lack of publicity for these forums. Despite the DIG’s initiative to organize open forums in various police station jurisdictions, the program has not proven effective due to inadequate awareness and strategic planning. A minimal number of complainants attended, and those who did expressed distrust due to inaction on their grievances.
According to details, the IG Islamabad had directed police stations to organize open forums so officers could promptly address public issues. However, these forums seem to be mere formalities, as only 10-15 citizens typically manage to attend. Of those, a significant number remain disappointed due to the lack of action on their complaints. Citizens claim that Islamabad police have never adequately publicized these forums. Moreover, complaints are often redirected to the same officials against whom they were lodged, with higher authorities merely issuing orders to the same officers for inquiries or resolutions, without any follow-up.
Citizens suggested that officials should announce open forums in mosques, enabling them to better understand ground realities and assure complainants. On the other hand, Islamabad Police claim that the forums are providing relief to complainants who previously had to wait months for justice, now receiving redressal within days. However, this system appears more focused on increasing problems rather than solving them. At this rate, it may take another 200 years to establish a system that operates automatically and incorporates accountability mechanisms.
