LAHORE: The province of Punjab is facing a deteriorating law and order situation as the police and district administration are prioritizing the management of flour distribution centers.

Meanwhile, incidents of robberies have been on the rise in major cities of the province.

Last week, two robbery incidents in Multan resulted in the lynching of six robbers by traders and locals. Additionally, two citizens lost their lives at the hands of robbers. Both mob lynching cases occurred in Multan, three at Gardaizi Market and as many on Mattital Road.

A station house officer, on the condition of anonymity, stated that they have to remain at the flour distribution sites all day to manage daily distribution. This leaves complainants visiting the police station unattended, and the shortage of staff at police stations has also affected patrolling duties.

Police prioritise flour distribution

Additional policemen have to be called in to maintain smooth flour distribution, leaving fewer officials available to respond to crime-related calls.

The provincial caretaker minister for information, Amir Mir, released a statement about the killings at flour distribution sites, claiming that the deaths of three valuable people were due to rush, and an inquiry is ongoing. However, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has expressed concern about the management causing a stampede at wheat flour distribution.

This incident, however, occurred in Karachi, but mismanagement has become a routine at flour supply centres in Punjab too.

Mir has defended the flour distribution scheme, stating that more than 25 million people have benefited from free flour so far, and only two complaints have been received about its quality.

He dismissed allegations of throwing tear gas shells at people during flour collection as a joke, adding that and the claims of death of dozens of people during the distribution of flour is nothing but mischief.

The members of the public, however, say the situation in Punjab remains concerning, with the police and district administration stretched thin due to the focus on flour distribution, leaving citizens vulnerable to the increasing incidents of robbery.

Published in Dawn, April 5th, 2023