THIS is with reference to the report `KP policemen take to streets in uniform against Peshawar suicide bombing` (Feb 2), according to which, demonstrations were held by policemen in several cities of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province in the wake of the recent blast in Peshawar`s Police Lines mosque. The demonstration had a one-point charter of demand; protection against terrorists. This was an unprecedented happening, and underscored the helplessness ofthe bottom tier in a force that is beset with administrative issues.
Right from the level of induction to training and then onwards to postings and transfers, the system is riddled with deficiencies of a serious nature. About one-third of the provincial police force remains deployed on non-combatant duties, including domestic chores of senior personnel in the department.
Over time, one-third of the force loses contact with their professional duties.
The unprecedented demonstrations by police personnelin the province was not the handiworl( of disgruntled elements in the department, but a voice of sanity against the rather sloppy manner in which the police force is being managed in the province.
