Unpacking the Lahore High Court’s Inquiry into Police Encounters
The Lahore High Court (LHC) recently raised some serious questions about police conduct in Punjab, particularly regarding operations by the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD). On Wednesday, Chief Justice Aalia Neelum directed Punjab Inspector General of Police Dr. Usman Anwar to explain why, in numerous encounters, it seems like only the accused are getting hit while police personnel and their vehicles remain unscathed. This situation has sparked concern over potential “fake encounters,” where suspects die under suspicious circumstances.
The inquiry stems from a petition filed by Farhat Bibi, who alleges that her son, Ghazanfar Aslam, was killed in one such fake encounter back in April. She also raised alarms about her other son, Ansar Aslam, who is currently detained in Sheikhupura jail. In her plea, she emphasized the need for protection for Ansar, pointing out that both her sons were apprehended by Sharaqpur Police.
The CTD’s own report described a scenario where officers stopped a van because of a flat tire. The report claims that as they approached the van, the occupants attacked the officers, leading to gunfire that only hit the suspects. However, Justice Neelum challenged this narrative, questioning how bullets only affected the detainees while leaving the officers and their vehicles untouched. It’s an important point — one that raises eyebrows and concerns among the public.
More than 40 petitions are filed daily in the court regarding allegations of staged custodial killings. This statistic paints a troubling picture of a system where detainee rights are seemingly overlooked. Chief Justice Neelum expressed some skepticism about the CTD’s reports, showing a desire for accountability and transparency in these operations.
In response to these serious allegations, she directed IGP Anwar to conduct a thorough review of recent CTD operations and propose measures to prevent any future abuses. It’s a step towards ensuring justice not just for Farhat Bibi and her family, but for many others who might be caught in similar situations.
This ongoing inquiry is more than just a legal process; it speaks to a broader conversation about police reform and accountability. As communities around the world grapple with issues of justice and law enforcement practices, the situation in Punjab serves as a critical reminder of the need for vigilance and reform.
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