The recent appointment of a comparatively junior Police Service of Pakistan (PSP) officer as the inspector general of police (IGP) in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has led to concerns among senior police officials regarding issues of seniority and merit.
Retired Captain Liaqat Ali Malik, a BPS-20 officer from the 33rd Common Training Programme (CTP), was transferred and posted by the Establishment Division on Sunday to the top police position in AJK. His appointment was made under Clause VIII of the 1949 Karachi Agreement, which states that the services of officers loaned to the AJK government are placed at its disposal, with formal appointments made via notification in AJK’s Gazette, as per a media report.
Malik assumed office on Tuesday and subsequently paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore on Thursday. However, his posting has drawn criticism from within the police ranks. According to the report six senior deputy inspectors general (DIGs) of the AJK police have formally raised their concerns with the prime minister. The officers highlighted issues related to seniority, merit, and the potential impact on institutional morale.
The senior officers’ letter to the prime minister underscores their apprehensions about the selection process, particularly the appointment of a junior officer over more senior colleagues. They argue that such decisions could affect the morale of the police force and set a precedent that undermines the principles of merit and seniority within the institution.
As of now, there has been no official response from the AJK government or the Establishment Division regarding the concerns raised by the senior DIGs. The situation remains under discussion, with the senior officers awaiting a response to their formal communication. Thanks PT
