Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Friday called for collective action against visible and invisible threats to public safety. She said ensuring citizens’ security requires shared responsibility beyond law enforcement alone. Her remarks focused on protecting families, especially women and children, across Punjab.
Addressing religious scholars and members of the Provincial Paigham-e-Aman Committee in Lahore, Maryam said fighting crime demanded cooperation from society alongside government institutions. She stressed that public safety remained her administration’s highest priority. “It is easier to fight a visible enemy, but we must also fight the invisible enemy that has entered our homes, streets and mindsets,” she said.
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Referring to recent incidents, the chief minister said she personally monitored the investigation into the killing of a girl in Sargodha until suspects were arrested. Although crime had declined in Punjab, she said official measures alone could not replace parental supervision and civic responsibility. She also highlighted child drownings during the summer and fatalities caused by missing manhole covers, urging greater public awareness and vigilance.
Maryam further advised parents to closely supervise children in markets and other public places. She also cited the recent tuition centre roof collapse in Lahore, which claimed 14 lives, urging families to assess building safety before enrolling children. According to the chief minister, preventing such tragedies requires both responsible governance and informed public participation.
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The chief minister also praised Punjab Police for their security arrangements during Muharram. She noted that many officers worked shifts lasting up to 18 hours, while one station house officer reportedly collapsed from exhaustion during duty. Maryam said lasting peace could only be achieved through unity, responsibility, and cooperation between citizens and state institutions.