The federal government’s decision to appoint Rao Abdul Kareem as the new Inspector General of Police (IGP) Punjab comes at a moment of intense public scrutiny for the province’s police force. The leadership change follows sustained criticism after the Bhati Gate manhole tragedy in Lahore, an incident that not only exposed grave civic negligence but also reignited debate around custodial conduct, command responsibility, and accountability within Punjab Police.

Rao Abdul Kareem, a BS-21 officer of the Police Service of Pakistan from the 24th Common, replaces Dr Usman Anwar, who has been transferred as Director General of the Federal Investigation Agency. Widely regarded within police circles as a seasoned and professional officer, Kareem brings with him nearly three decades of experience across intelligence, operations, and command roles. His career spans field postings in Sukkur,Hyderabad, Chiniot, and Lahore, as well as senior leadership positions including Regional Police Officer Gujranwala, Commandant Punjab Constabulary, and Additional Inspector General Special Branch Punjab.

 The timing of Kareem’s appointment, however, is as significant as his credentials. It follows public outrage over the deaths of Sadia and her 10-month-old daughter, Rida Fatima, who drowned after falling into an uncovered manhole near Bhati Gate. The tragedy escalated into a larger controversy when allegations surfaced that Sadia’s husband, Murtaza, was illegally detained and tortured by police officials, allegedly in the presence of senior officers.

While Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif ordered action against officials from other departments for negligence, the police response has drawn particular attention. Reports that officers acted on “instructions from senior command,” as stated during inquiry proceedings, have raised uncomfortable questions about institutional culture and the chain of command. In such cases, accountability cannot stop at the station level; it must extend upward.

Dr Usman Anwar’s tenure as IG Punjab was marked by administrative reforms, including a faster promotion mechanism, and he was praised by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi for reshaping the force. Yet, the Bhati Gate episode illustrates the persistent gap between reform on paper and conduct on the ground.

For Rao Abdul Kareem, the challenge ahead is formidable. Beyond restoring public trust, his leadership will be judged on whether Punjab Police can move toward genuine accountability and  ensure lawful conduct. This transition is not merely a change of office, it is a test of whether institutional reform can translate into justice, restraint, and responsibility where it matters most.

The question remains the same: Can Maryam Nawaz bring about any real change? Can this system truly operate with transparency, and will the poor actually receive justice here?

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)