An Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) at Lahore’s Ghaziabad Police Station has been accused of sexually harassing and attempting to rape a beggar, according to a newly filed complaint. The officer, identified as ASI Imran, was reportedly assigned to ‘manage’ beggars in the area—a role that has come under scrutiny after the allegations surfaced.

The incident has triggered a high-level police probe, with the Lahore Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) directing the investigation to be completed within 48 hours. The accused officer has been suspended pending the inquiry, while the complainant—a beggar—has been provided police protection amid fears of retaliation.

Key facts
- Accused: ASI Imran, Ghaziabad Police Station, Lahore
- Victim: A beggar (identity withheld for privacy)
- Allegations: Sexual harassment and attempted rape
- Action taken: Suspension of ASI Imran; police protection for complainant
- Probe deadline: 48 hours, ordered by Lahore CCPO

The complaint was lodged at the Ghaziabad Police Station on 12 June 2025, but details of the alleged assault only emerged publicly after an internal review of police records revealed ASI Imran’s recent assignment to oversee beggars in the area. Police sources say the officer had been assigned this duty as part of a broader initiative to ‘regulate’ begging in Lahore, a move critics argue has left vulnerable individuals—especially women and children—more exposed to abuse.

How the allegations surfaced

According to police documents reviewed by Naya Pakistan, ASI Imran was assigned to the ‘beggar management’ unit at Ghaziabad PS around three months ago. His duties reportedly included monitoring beggars, registering their details, and ensuring they did not obstruct public spaces. However, the complainant—a woman who begs near Ghaziabad Chowk—alleged that the officer began harassing her shortly after his assignment.

The woman told investigators that on 9 June 2025, ASI Imran lured her into a police van under the pretext of registering her details. She claims he then drove her to a secluded area near Ravi Road, where he attempted to sexually assault her. The woman managed to escape and filed a complaint the next day.

Police sources say ASI Imran had previously been accused of misconduct in 2023, but no action was taken at the time. The current probe is being led by a DSP-rank officer from the Lahore Police Internal Accountability Unit, with orders to submit a report by 14 June 2025.

What the law says—and why it matters

Under Pakistan’s Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act 2010, sexual harassment is a criminal offense punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of up to Rs 500,000. However, activists point out that enforcement remains weak, especially in cases involving marginalized groups like beggars, who often lack access to legal recourse.

‘Beggars are among the most vulnerable communities in Lahore,’ said Nida Mushtaq, a Lahore-based human rights lawyer. ‘They have no documentation, no fixed address, and often no one to advocate for them. Police officers assigned to ‘manage’ them frequently exploit this power imbalance.’

The case has also raised questions about Lahore’s beggar regulation policies, which critics argue criminalize poverty rather than address its root causes. In 2024, the Lahore High Court directed the city government to decriminalize begging and provide social welfare support to beggars. However, implementation has been slow, and many officers continue to treat beggars as a ‘nuisance’ rather than individuals in need of protection.

What happens next?

The Lahore CCPO has ordered a speedy trial for ASI Imran, with the accused officer suspended and his service weapon confiscated. The complainant’s statement has been recorded under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), which allows for the recording of evidence before trial.

Legal experts say the case could set a precedent for how police misconduct against marginalized groups is handled. ‘If this officer is convicted, it will send a strong message that no one—regardless of their position—is above the law,’ said Ahmed Raza, a Lahore-based lawyer.

Meanwhile, the Lahore Social Welfare Department has been asked to provide the complainant with temporary shelter and financial assistance while the case is pending. Activists are calling for a public inquiry into Lahore’s beggar management policies, arguing that the current system enables abuse.

What you should do

If you or someone you know has been a victim of police harassment or abuse:

  • File a complaint at the nearest police station or Lahore Police Internal Accountability Unit (contact: 042-99204444).
  • Seek legal help from organizations like the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) or Aurat Foundation.
  • Document evidence—recordings, messages, or witness statements can strengthen your case.
  • Demand accountability—ask your local MNA or MPA to push for reforms in police conduct.

What to watch

  • 14 June 2025: Deadline for the police probe report.
  • Next court date: To be announced after the investigation concludes.
  • Lahore High Court hearing: Expected on the city’s beggar regulation policy (date TBA).
  • Public reaction: Protests or statements from civil society groups may follow if the case is mishandled.