EROSION OF POLICING VALUES: A culture of abuse threatens law enforcement

Islamabad : In recent years, a disturbing and misguided culture has emerged within senior government ranks, particularly in the police force. This decline in ethical standards reflects broader societal erosion that is undermining the very institutions meant to protect the public. While some officers may attempt to justify their abusive behaviour toward subordinates, these justifications fall apart when one considers the destructive impact on the entire system. This abuse is not about maintaining discipline; it is about feeding egos, and the cost is far too great to ignore.

Voices from the lower ranks of the police force reveal a troubling trend—superiors treating their subordinates with blatant disrespect, often resorting to abusive language. This shift is a stark departure from the traditional values upheld by veteran officers and senior bureaucrats, who understood that mutual respect between superiors and subordinates was essential for earning loyalty and fostering trust. Compassionate leadership has always been recognised as empowering, enabling officers to perform their duties with dedication and professionalism. In contrast, those who return home burdened by insults and humiliation are likely to carry that negativity into their personal lives, perpetuating cycles of abuse.

A strong leader understands that respect and empathy are vital tools in effective command. Such a leader treats their team like family, cultivating loyalty through kindness and fairness. Unfortunately, today’s police force is witnessing the rise of leaders who thrive on intimidation and verbal abuse, sowing division and hatred. The old adage, "respect begets respect," seems lost on these officers, who only manage to create toxic environments where fear and resentment flourish.

This culture of disrespect is particularly evident in the so-called "police station culture," where abusive language and demeaning behaviour have become the norm. Commanding officers often use meetings as opportunities to belittle their subordinates, asserting their dominance in a manner that reeks of arrogance rather than leadership. Experienced professionals in policing have long argued that a compassionate, empathetic officer is far more effective and professional than one who rules through fear. Those who lack empathy often also lack the basic manners and professionalism needed to handle public interactions effectively.

Despite the severe unemployment pressures in the country, many of today’s youth still dream of joining the police force, driven by a desire to eliminate nepotism and promote merit. They envision restoring law and order, upholding human rights, and protecting society’s most vulnerable, as mandated by the Constitution. However, when these young recruits encounter humiliation, abuse, and violence at the hands of their own superiors during training, how can they possibly hope to bring positive change to the society they swore to protect?

Those who join the police force with ideals of upholding the rule of law often find themselves subjected to lawlessness and brutality from within. Over time, many begin to question their decision to serve. This toxic environment is the bedrock of the infamous "police station culture," where corruption flourishes, and justice is a mere commodity for sale. In these stations, the lines between complainant and criminal blur, as justice is manipulated by a few powerful individuals. These police stations often become torture chambers rather than places of justice, where complainants are transformed into criminals, and judgments are bought at exorbitant prices.

At the root of this corruption is not just the police force itself but a mafia of corrupt politicians, feudal lords, and crime syndicates. This group acts as an impenetrable barrier between the public and justice, ensuring that the status quo remains unchallenged. The police, far from being protectors of the public, often find themselves subservient to these powerful forces, ensuring that true justice remains out of reach for many.

The pressing question is, can any head of investigative, research, or law enforcement agencies, with their hand on their heart, claim that they obtained their position based solely on merit? Can they honestly say that they serve the state rather than political rulers?

It is undeniable that there are still professional, righteous investigators within the police and other law enforcement agencies. These individuals fulfil their duties with unwavering honesty and integrity. However, they represent a minority—only about two to three percent of the entire force. The rest, it seems, are caught up in a system that values personal gain and political loyalty over justice, integrity, and professionalism.

The policing culture is in dire need of reform. Without a drastic shift in leadership values and the elimination of this toxic "police station culture," the police force will continue to serve as a tool of oppression rather than a guardian of justice.