KARACHI: Police Martyrs’ Day was observed in the metr­opolis on Sunday, paying tribute to the sacrifices of policemen who laid down their lives protecting citizens and combating organised crime in Sindh.

Events were organised at the district level to honour the martyrs and their families, with gifts and cheques distributed in recognition of their services.

Senior officers and civil society members attended these events.

The main event was held at Bahria Auditorium at Karsaz.

Police Martyrs’ Day observed in Karachi

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah praised the selflessness of the martyrs, stating their sacrifices are immortalised in history. He saluted the brave families of the fallen officers and acknowledged their courage.

Mr Shah said his government provides Rs10 million compensation to the families of policemen killed in bomb blasts, encounters, target killings, and terrorism.

Additionally, Rs1m is given to the families of policemen kil­led in accidents while on duty, along with Rs300,000 for fun­eral expenses. The government also provides Rs100,000 as a marriage grant and educational scholarships for their children, while their monthly salary continues until their reti­r­ement. Upon retirement, gratuity, gro­up insurance, leave enc­ashm­ent, and GP fund are released to the family of the martyr. The government also pro­v­ides two jobs for the family members of the deceased officer.

The chief minister announced that Rs17.5m would be given to the families of police constables and head constables who sacrificed their lives in encounters, target killings, and maintaining law and order. This amount increases to Rs22.5m for ASI/Inspector/ASP/DSP/SSP and Rs31m for the families of DIG, families of additional IG and IG rank officers will receive Rs60m. Previously, only Rs10m was provided to martyr’s families.

“Now, Rs3m is given to the family of a constable/head constable, Rs4m to an SI/ASI, Rs4.5m to an Inspector/DSP, Rs5m to an SP/SSP, and Rs7m to a DIG and above. Minorly injured policemen are given Rs. 5,000, while those who become disabled receive Rs1m. Additi­onally, medical insurance of Rs1m is provided to 2.7m polic­e­men and their families,” he said.

Discussing the Karachi Safe City project, the CM mentioned that 13,000 cameras were being installed in key areas for Rs. 3.67 billion. The Sindh Smart Surveillance System (S4) has been launched, covering all 40 toll plazas in the province with advanced cameras to identify criminals and illegal vehicles.

The Sindh Police were commended for their efforts in controlling crime and providing security to various individuals, including Indian nationals visiting Karachi. Home Minister Zia Lanjar praised the martyrs as the ‘real heroes’ of the nation.

IGP Ghulam Nabi Memon noted that the Sindh police have valiantly fought against terrorists and criminals despite facing criticism. He acknowledged the improved law and order situation due to the sacrifices of the police martyrs and the collaborative efforts of the police and Rangers in reducing ethnic and political violence, street crimes, and kidnapping for ransom.

The IG expressed concerns about potential terrorist threats from Balochistan and tribal clashes in certain parts of Sindh. He attributed the rise in crime to unemployment and inflation and mentioned the challenges of training and equipment. He appreciated the Sindh government’s approval of a welfare package for the police.

Additional IG Karachi Javed Odho also addressed the event. A special song and documentary were presented to honour the Sindh police martyrs.

Published in Dawn, August 5th, 2024