The Punjab government has proposed renaming police stations across the province as part of a broader effort to reform the police system and address the long-standing “thana culture.” The proposal aims to change public perception and encourage citizens to approach law enforcement without fear.
‘Public Safety Centers’ to Replace ‘Thana’
According to government sources, police stations may soon be renamed “Public Safety Centers,” replacing the 150-year-old colonial-era term “thana.” Officials believe the word “thana” has become associated with intimidation and discourages people from seeking help or registering complaints.
The renaming process will begin after final approval from the Punjab provincial cabinet.
Government’s Objective Behind the Proposal
Sources within the government say the initiative is intended to:
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Reduce fear linked with police stations
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Improve public trust in law enforcement
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Encourage citizens to report crimes and seek justice
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Modernize policing language in line with reform goals
Punjab currently has more than 500 police stations and nearly 100 police check posts across the province. Once approved, authorities will initiate the constitutional and legal procedures required to implement the name change.
Mixed Reactions from Legal Community
However, the proposal has drawn mixed reactions from members of the legal community. District Bar President Sardar Manzar Bashir, Assistant Attorney General Masood Shah, and secretary candidate Mehran Ejaz Anwar Chaudhry have expressed concerns, stating that changing names alone will not bring real reform.
They emphasized that meaningful change depends on improving police behavior, accountability, and public dealings, rather than simply altering terminology.
What Comes Next
If the cabinet gives its approval, Punjab will move ahead with the formal process, making this one of the most symbolic changes in the province’s policing framework in recent years.
