Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif donning the police uniform on Thursday for a passing out parade ceremony has sparked a range of reactions, with some lauding the move as a show of solidarity and support and others criticising it for allegedly disrespecting official protocol.

Addressing the passing-out parade at Chung Police Training Centre on Thursday, while wearing a police uniform, CM Maryam said: "Nearly 7,000 women officers are rendering their service in Punjab police. It had always made me happy to see the representation of women in the police force."

As per the 'Punjab Police Dress Regulations', the CM of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is entitled to wear the police uniform. This has been widely celebrated by the police personnel, who view it as a commendable show of solidarity. The Central Police Office has received hundreds… pic.twitter.com/GFtXBNSuZo
— Punjab Police Official (@OfficialDPRPP) April 25, 2024

However, critics voiced concerns over the perceived blurring of lines between political authority and law enforcement, questioning the appropriateness of a civilian politician assuming the attire associated with the police force.

Also Read: CM Maryam vows to increase women's representation in police force

The move has fuelled debates over the sanctity of uniforms and the potential implications for the perceived neutrality and professionalism of law enforcement institutions.

Amidst the debate, the Punjab Police released a statement on its X account, dispelling the criticism. It said: "As per the 'Punjab Police Dress Regulations', the CM of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is entitled to wear the police uniform. This has been widely celebrated by the police personnel, who view it as a commendable show of solidarity."

The statement further claimed that the Central Police Office has received hundreds of messages in which police personnel lauded this step. "Female police officers are celebrating the event and have shared various pictures of Madam CM Punjab in uniform," it added.

The Punjab Police said it is committed to further improve the law and order situation and to continue the counter-terrorism efforts across the country, as directed by the chief minister in a subsequent meeting held at the training college.