‘Had I not screamed, it would’ve turned nastier’ | The Express Tribune

A potentially calamitous situation was averted in Lahore thanks to the resolute intervention of a policewoman from the Punjab Police.

In an interview with BBC, she recounted the intense moments outside a restaurant in Punjab’s capital. “Had I not screamed and had I not convinced the crowd that we will do something about it, it would have turned nastier… Thank God,” Gulberg Circle ASP Shehr Bano Naqvi remarked.

This courageous officer found herself at the forefront of a rapidly escalating confrontation when a misunderstanding led the crowd to accuse a woman of blasphemy. The woman’s dress had the word “Halwa” printed in Arabic letters on it, meaning “beautiful or sweet” in Arabic.

Displaying remarkable presence of mind and bravery, Shehr Bano swiftly took charge of the situation, preventing it from spiralling into tragedy.

Her decisive actions have garnered widespread praise, with the chief of Punjab Police Dr Usman Anwar advocating for her to be honoured with an award for her exemplary courage.

In the face of imminent danger, Shehr Bano’s steadfastness not only safeguarded the lives of those involved but also prevented potential chaos and violence.

“It was a critical moment. I had to act swiftly to ensure the safety of the woman and prevent any harm from coming to her,” Shehr Bano stated, emphasising the urgency of the situation.

The policewoman, along with her colleagues, managed to escort the woman to safety amidst the growing crowd. Videos circulated on social media depict the tense atmosphere, with Shehr Bano seen negotiating with the crowd, trying to restore order amidst chants for the woman to remove her attire.

Read more: Blasphemy suspect held a day after escape

“It was a tense situation, but we had to maintain control and ensure the safety of everyone involved,” Shehr Bano added, highlighting the challenges faced by law enforcement in such high-pressure scenarios.

Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, a former advisor to the prime minister on religious affairs said on X, formerly known as Twitter, that the men in the crowd, rather than the woman, should have been the ones to apologise.

Newly-elected Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif honoured Shehr Bano, recognising her exceptional courage and astuteness.

Maryam emphasised that the policewoman’s timely intervention averted a potential tragedy, underscoring the critical importance of her actions.

Expressing gratitude to ASP Shehr Bano, Maryam remarked, “We take immense pride in your valour.”

Despite facing intense pressure and challenging circumstances, the CM-elect said that Shehr Bano upheld the principles of justice and compassion, maintaining the dignity of law and humanity.