PESHAWAR: The PTI-led Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is facing growing questions over its handling of the provincial police, with critics accusing it of weakening the force by keeping it short of modern equipment and seeking greater political control over its command structure at a time when police are on the frontline of the fight against terrorism and militancy.
Despite the province receiving substantial funds under the National Finance Commission (NFC) arrangement, official documents and media reports have highlighted shortages of bulletproof vehicles, protective equipment, forensic facilities, surveillance technology and other essential resources within the police and Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD).
The concerns have gained added significance after the KP cabinet approved a proposed Police Act 2026 that would make key operational, administrative and financial decisions of the provincial police chief subject to the approval of the provincial government or chief minister. Federal officials have criticised the move, saying it could weaken the police command structure and affect its ability to fight terrorism.
The debate comes as militants increasingly use drones, explosives and other modern technology against security forces in the province. KP Police has itself established a dedicated unmanned aerial vehicle division to counter the growing drone threat, highlighting the need for modern equipment and technological capabilities in counterterrorism operations.
