The Supreme Court of Pakistan has barred citizens from using the phrase “Bakhidmat Janab SHO” in complaints and official applications, stressing that police officers are public servants, not masters.
In its ruling, the apex court directed that citizens should now address police officers simply as “Janab SHO,” calling the earlier phrasing outdated and reflective of a subservient mindset.
The court emphasized the need to reform police-citizen interactions on the basis of dignity and constitutional rights.
The judgment also clarified that individuals reporting crimes will be referred to as “informants” rather than “complainants,” except in private criminal cases, where the term complainant will still apply.
The court further prohibited the use of the word “fryadi,” noting that it suggests pleading for mercy instead of asserting legal rights.
Warning police officials, the court said delays in registering First Information Reports (FIRs) are unacceptable and may result in legal action.
It cautioned that officers could face consequences under Section 201 of the Pakistan Penal Code for postponing FIR registration, as delays often lead to loss of evidence.
Justice Salahuddin Panwhar authored the judgment, following observations raised by Judicial Law Clerk Muhammad Subhan Malik.
The court highlighted the need for fundamental reforms to establish a professional, rights-based relationship between citizens and law enforcement.