It is important for the police as an institution to become gender responsive, both in terms of public dealing and also by the induction of female police into the department. With the recruitment of more females into the force, the situation will improve drastically as victims of gender based crimes and violence will not be reluctant to approach the police for assistance and protection. Currently there are estimated only above 3,000 female police in Pakistan, accounting for only 5 percent of the total force. It is important that not only the quotas for women should be increased, but they should be able to openly compete and they should be encouraged not only by the department but also the society to join and contribute in the police force.
YASIR HAMEED,
Islamabad, December 27.