The recent protest by FAK against the recruitment of women in the police is threatening. It is unconstitutional in Pakistan. Moreover, it violates the ethos of Islamic values of fairness, equality and wellbeing. Historically, women have always been urged through Islam to empower the communities. In the Quran and Sunnah, both men and women are emphasized the duty of providing justice and security alike. Therefore, the opposition to the policewomen roles is not religious direction. Instead, it is fanatical propaganda which hurts society.
Women Recruitment is Constitutional Requirement
The Constitution of Pakistan openly sets aside 5 percent of the women police vacancies. This is not optional. Women have a legal right in the country. It is through their inclusion that the community trusts the law enforcement. Indeed, it represents and portrays equity and equality of the police with all sections of society. Moreover, it is not the favor of women but a state duty to recruit women. It should not be overlooked because it compromises the guarantees in the constitution and undermines democracy.
The resistance of FAK is of a retrogressive ideology. It reflects radicalistic thoughts such as the TTA who suppressed the voice of women. Their position aims at ejecting women out of the mainstream.
This tactic silences half of the population and inhibits advances. It is anti-women as well as anti-development. Such restricted thinking is incompatible with human rights and development of society. The propaganda of FAK should be considered as an obstacle to the further development of Pakistan.
Equal Legal Opportunity in Newly Merged Tribal Districts
Equal treatment under the law came with the amalgamation of the tribal regions into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Consequently, the newly merged districts are equally covered by the same laws such as the quota of women when recruiting police. Moreover, the position of women in police forces of NMD is not merely symbolic. In fact, it is a symbol of assimilation, equality and modernization.
Their presence confirms that tribal communities are included in the mainstream development in Pakistan. Ultimately, denying women their portions would be tantamount to denying tribal folks their constitutional rights.
Inclusion of Women, a Legal and Cultural Mandate
Legal challenges exist during the recruitment of women into the police. It is neither a conspiracy nor alien. It enhances national security and cultural safety. Strikingly, women officers are sensitive to sensitive cases and deal with them with decency and professionalism. Their presence guarantees justice to all households. It is not only a law, but it is a cultural requirement of a safe and balanced society.
Islam does not limit women to the positions in society that can advance welfare and righteousness. The Islamic history of women was one of the teachers, warriors and guardians of the communities. They were appreciated by the Prophet (PBUH) and his companions. The propaganda of FAK distorts the image of Islam. Dignity, justice and equality are honored by true Islamic values. Withholding the opportunity to serve women is contrary to the teachings of Islam.
Women officers become significant in bridging the gap between the law and society. They are more involved with families, children and vulnerable groups. They make policing more human and community based.
Women in uniform represent forward and encompassment. They help in peace building and the establishment of cultural trust. Such is the sort of development Pakistan must have.
Counter Terrorist Propaganda
FAK tries to call the recruitment of women anti-cultural. This is a groundless and controlled freak claim. Culture does not stand still. Real heroism is to be on the side of the law and not extremist propaganda. Trying to marginalize women is a political strategy. They use cultural values to advance fear. It is important to dismiss these falsities to protect the identity and development of Pakistan.
Moreover, the involvement of women in the police increases the security of a nation. Inclusive policing is a requirement of every society. It shows equality in the enforcement of the law. This enhances the ability of Pakistan to withstand terrorism. The greatest barriers to extremism are justice and equality. The police force that is made up of women symbolizes stability and unity.
Notably, tribal families are also safeguarded by the contribution of women in the police. It brings justice to sensitive cases that involve women and children. Pakistan will be protecting gains in tribal areas by denying the historical narrative of FAK. Women empowerment in these areas is empowerment of the whole community. It is not only about quotas but about protection of rights. It reveals that the state treats all citizens equally.
Road to a Successful Future
The aspect of women recruitment in the police is not merely about jobs. It concerns forming a progressive and just future. It is an indication of justice and equality in Pakistan. Over and above, it is important to support this initiative for nation building. It is one step to long term stability and prosperity. It is not possible that Pakistan lets extremist propaganda control its course. Inclusion and not exclusion is the future.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are exclusively those of the author and do not reflect the official stance, policies, or perspectives of the Platform
