In praise of the Pakistan Police!
Arif Ashoor
On a Sunday night we, friends, were enjoying the late night party at a famous eat out in Peshawar. Our party was awesome. While on the way back to hostel one of my friend’s bike hit a street light. The street light stood as it was, but a policeman rushed to the spot, to perform his “duty”.
My friend got angry. He started scolding the whole police department, including my dad, i thought, because he is also one of them!
The incident had a profound impact on me. I thought it was unjust to blame the entire police force just because we are angry, or just because some injustice has been done with us by someone. I think contrary to the general belief, there are shining examples of police officers who have given their lives in the path of duty, while defending the ordinary people. Call it a son’s tribute to his dad, if you wish, but I write this blog to praise the whole Pakistani Police, of course including my father.
Generally the police officers are seen in a very negative manner in Pakistan, but if you ask a policeman about his duties, he will most likely say:
I am the one who stands without a bullet proof vest outside the mosque missing his prayer so that you can offer prayer with ease and without any danger. I am the one who stands outside the mosque missing his Eid prayer so that you can offer Eid prayer. I am the one who doesn’t go home to celebrate Eid with his parents and children so that you can celebrate Eid peacefully.
I am the one who protect you from terrorist while you enjoyed your Azadari in imam bargha.I am the one who stands outside your church so that you can celebrate Christmas. I am the one who stands outside temple so that you can pray. I am the one who even when sick stands under the direct sunlight without any air conditioner, fan and umbrella outside the hospital so that you can get yourself checked without any danger.
I am the one who stands outside your markets so that you can shop easily. I am the one who stands outside your parks, restaurants and cafes so that you can enjoy and eat peacefully. I am the one who stands outside your markets so that you can shop. I am the one who on his birthday stands outside your birthday party so that you can celebrate it. I am the one who on his wedding anniversary day stands outside your marriage hall so that you can enjoy precious moments of life.
I am the one who is unable to see his ailing parents, and his school going children so that you can be at peace. I am the one who can’t attend his sister and daughter’s wedding so that you can enjoy your sister and daughter’s wedding. I am the one who on his salary day stands outside the bank to guard you so that you can have your salary in time. I am the one who without even any protection and fear performs a body search of people so that no terrorist can harm you. I am the one who keeps on waking at night so that you can sleep peacefully.
I am the one who without sophisticated, automated weapons and bullet proof vest fights with terrorists so that my homeland can be a peaceful place to live in. I am the one who stands out in foggy, chilling weather so that you can enjoy the warmth of heaters in your home. I am the one who stands outside your school, colleges and universities so that you can study and serve this country. I am the one who stands outside polling station so that you can cast your vote. I am the one who has spent his young time to serve you so that you can enjoy your time. I am the one who smiles even if you shout. I am the one whose thousands of colleagues lost their lives while protecting their countrymen.
I am the one who performs his duty without taking any bribe and fear but even then being labeled as “Chillar”, “Thief”, “Dishonest” and “Liar”. I am no one else but a proud Policeman and no matter how much wrong you think of me I shall continue to serve my Country and Nation.
Dedicated to all Policemen of this homeland, especially my dad. We Salute You.
Wow it is fantastic peice of writinf I ever read… A very good reflection is shared. I also believe that Pakistani Police are the most deprvied folks of the society, who face more life dangers and get get less packages in return. On the road they have to listen to the abuse of ssenior officers and the ellites of the sociey. we should encourage them and respect them so that they respec us. It is a give and gain game.
My Dear the issue isn’t with the People out there this is a serious concern with the Hell system out there, Which is neither in the favour of the public and nor in the favour of your Dad!!!