A BIZARRE drama unfolded on Tuesday involving Citizens-Police Liaison Committee chief Ahmed Chinoy and the paramilitary Rangers. As reported, in the early hours of Tuesday the Rangers ‘raided’ the Karachi residence of Mr Chinoy.

The CPLC chief had initially confirmed the ‘raid’, but later in the evening denied that any such incident had taken place, adding that the ‘visit’ by the Rangers involved sharing information about an abducted youth.

Also read: No raid?: CPLC chief says Rangers ‘came to discuss findings’

To add to the puzzling developments, the MQM had initially issued a scathing critique of the Rangers, in defence of the CPLC head. But when Mr Chinoy seemed to backtrack on his allegations, the Muttahida criticised him with equal fervour.

Going by the information so far, the Rangers’ early morning visit would appear to be uncalled for, and the paramilitary force needs to clarify its stance on the matter.

However, it is also true that this unsavoury event has tainted the once sterling reputation enjoyed by the CPLC, and all stakeholders need to explore ways to restore the organisation’s independence and credibility.

The events indicate that the CPLC has been politicised. This is unacceptable for an organisation that has served as a vital go-between — as its name suggests — linking the citizenry with the law enforcers.

Whether it is helping solve kidnapping cases or assisting citizens with registering FIRs, the CPLC has for over two decades served as an essential public service organisation in Sindh, that has helped create a more public-friendly interface between the people and the police.

That politics — or apparent mismanagement — should dent the reputation of such an institution is regrettable. It is difficult to build institutions in Pakistan and even more difficult to maintain them.

Hence if there are management issues within the CPLC they need to be addressed so that the latter’s image as an apolitical organisation can be restored.

The committee must have smooth working relations with the police and Rangers, while the same is true for the law enforcers.

Due to its various deficiencies — namely the unwelcoming atmosphere of the infamous ‘thana culture’ that prevails in Pakistan — the people are reluctant to approach the police directly in many cases.

That is why especially in a crime-infested city like Karachi the CPLC serves such a valuable purpose. It is hoped that this ugly episode serves as a turning point and efforts are made to restore the professional and public-friendly image of the CPLC.

Published in Dawn January 29th, 2015

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