Serious concerns over human rights and law enforcement practices have emerged in Pakistan after reports claimed that the Punjab Police killed nearly 900 people in the province of Punjab over a span of just eight months.

The figures, reportedly linked to police encounters and anti-crime operations, have sparked widespread criticism from human rights observers, who argue that such a high number of deaths reflects a deeply troubling pattern of extrajudicial killings and excessive use of force.

Allegations of extrajudicial killings raise serious questions

Critics allege that many of these deaths occurred during so-called “police encounters,” a controversial practice in Pakistan often described by rights groups as staged or unlawful killings carried out without judicial oversight.

Human rights advocates argue that encounter killings have increasingly become a tool used by law enforcement to bypass due process. Instead of arresting suspects and allowing courts to determine guilt, police are accused of acting as judge, jury, and executioner. Such practices not only violate basic human rights but also undermine the rule of law and public trust in state institutions.

Culture of impunity within Pakistan’s policing system

Observers say the scale of reported killings reflects deeper structural problems within Pakistan’s law enforcement framework, including weak accountability, lack of independent oversight, and political interference.

Police officials often justify encounter killings as necessary to combat crime, but critics argue that the absence of transparent investigations allows abuses to continue unchecked. In many cases, families of victims struggle to obtain justice due to fear, intimidation, and institutional barriers. This culture of impunity has contributed to growing public mistrust of police, particularly in poorer and marginalized communities, where residents feel most vulnerable to abuse.

Human rights concerns damage Pakistan’s global image

The reported killings have also drawn international attention, further damaging Pakistan’s reputation on human rights issues. Global rights organizations have repeatedly warned that extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and police brutality remain persistent problems. Such developments raise serious concerns about Pakistan’s commitment to democratic principles, legal accountability, and protection of fundamental rights.

Urgent need for reform and accountability

The scale of reported police killings highlights the urgent need for systemic reform within Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies. Experts say meaningful accountability, independent investigations, and judicial oversight are essential to restore credibility and protect citizens. Without structural reforms, critics warn that extrajudicial violence could continue unchecked, further eroding public confidence and weakening the foundations of justice and rule of law in Pakistan.

This Image is taken from Al Jazeera.