Respected Auntie,
I am writing to seek your guidance regarding a difficult situation that affects my career aspirations. I am currently preparing for the Central Superior Services (CSS) examination, hoping to join the Police Service of Pakistan (PSP). However, I was recently diagnosed with irreversible macular degeneration in my right eye, likely caused by a congenital scar that went undetected until recently.
This has resulted in a complete loss of central vision in that eye. Fortunately, my left eye is entirely unaffected, allowing me to perform daily activities without difficulty, including shooting, riding and driving.
Unfortunately, this condition renders me ineligible under the current medical standards for the PSP, despite my aptitude and fitness in all other respects. This news has been highly distressing, and I am finding it difficult to maintain the focus and motivation required for my CSS preparation.
‘An Eye Condition Has Shattered My Police Dreams’
I would be deeply grateful for your advice on the following:
— Should I redirect my efforts toward an alternative CSS occupational group with less stringent medical requirements?
— Are there any avenues for appeal or medical exceptions based on my functional capabilities?
— How can I emotionally reconcile with this setback and regain the focus needed to resume my studies productively?
Thank you for your time, consideration and counsel.
A Concerned Young Aspirant
Dear Concerned Young Aspirant,
This is an incredibly difficult situation to find yourself in. You have built a dream over several years, only to find out that something that is beyond your control may prevent you from reaching your goal. This can feel very unfair.
However, before you give up on your dream of joining the PSP, be absolutely sure that you understand the current rules properly. Medical rules and appeal procedures can change and, sometimes, there is the possibility of a review. See if you can get another medical opinion. Explore all the available options before deciding that PSP is not for you.
At the same time, please do not put your entire future on hold while you wait for the response. That would be a mistake. In fact, you should continue to prepare for the CSS and if, despite all your efforts, the verdict on PSP remains that it isn’t possible for you, then there are several other groups in CSS where you can serve your country. I think it is safe to assume that the qualities that make a good and honest police officer, such as integrity, courage and leadership, are equally valuable in most, if not all, of the other occupational groups.
In case PSP doesn’t work out for you, you should allow yourself time to grieve because this is about more than a medical diagnosis. It is about letting go of a dream. While that is painful, you shouldn’t let one setback convince you that it is over. It is not. Certain things are beyond our control and may simply be a sign that it is time for a reset. Sometimes, life redirects you to a path better suited to your purpose.
So, while your purpose seems to be public service, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to wear a police uniform. You can serve Pakistan in some other way. So the goal — to serve your country — remains the same, but the path to the goal may change. Don’t let your eye issue keep you from seeing the many possibilities that still lie ahead.
Disclaimer: If you or someone you know is in crisis and/or feeling suicidal, please go to your nearest emergency room and seek medical help immediately.
Auntie will not reply privately to any query.
Please send concise queries to:
Published in Dawn, EOS, August 2nd, 2026
