Body Cameras for PERA
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has introduced a major reform to strengthen transparency and accountability within the Punjab Enforcement and Regulator Authority (PERA) Force. The Chief Minister has officially ordered the deployment of body cameras for PERA Force personnel across all field operations, marking a significant step toward curbing bribery, misconduct, abuse, and false allegations. This groundbreaking measure is part of a broader set of reforms aimed at enhancing public trust and ensuring that enforcement activities remain fair, professional, and well-documented.
Chairing a high-level meeting in Lahore, Maryam Nawaz reviewed the performance, monitoring system and proposed structural improvements for the PERA Force. She emphasized that there would be zero tolerance for corruption or mistreatment within the force and that each officer must uphold the highest standards of integrity. With the introduction of bodycams, the Punjab government seeks to create a safer, more transparent environment both for enforcement personnel and the public.
Body Cameras for PERA Force: A Step Towards Transparent Governance
During the meeting, the Chief Minister stated that the installation and operationalization of body cameras must be completed as soon as possible. The adoption of bodycams is expected to serve as a powerful deterrent against illegal practices, while also safeguarding officers from false accusations often made during enforcement activities.
The decision to introduce body cameras for PERA Force aligns with global enforcement trends where visual recording devices have proven effective in strengthening accountability. Video evidence helps resolve disputes, reduces incidents of misconduct and provides reliable documentation for all field interactions.
Maryam Nawaz reiterated that the primary goal of these reforms is to ensure that PERA Force functions as a public-friendly, efficient and transparent institution that citizens can rely on without hesitation.
Zero Tolerance for Bribery and Abuse
In her address, the Punjab Chief Minister made it clear that any form of bribery, harassment or abuse of authority would not be tolerated. She reaffirmed that with the use of body cameras for PERA Force personnel, every step of the enforcement process will remain visible and verifiable. This ensures that laws are applied fairly and consistently while preventing misuse of power.
The decision comes amid growing demands for greater transparency in regulatory enforcement across the province. PERA Force, responsible for monitoring compliance across various sectors, plays a crucial role in ensuring that regulations are followed. Maryam Nawaz highlighted that improved behavior and professional conduct will directly increase public confidence in the force.
Modernizing PERA with Electric Vehicles
As part of her reform plan, Maryam Nawaz also approved the procurement of electric vehicles for PERA Force. This move is aimed at improving operational efficiency while contributing to environmental sustainability. The shift to electric mobility supports Punjab’s broader vision for cleaner energy, reducing pollution and lowering long-term operational costs.
With better mobility and advanced technology, the force will be able to respond more effectively to complaints, conduct inspections more efficiently and expand its enforcement footprint across urban and rural areas.
Training and Professional Development for PERA Officers
To strengthen the operational capacity of the PERA Force, the Chief Minister announced the launch of special training sessions for all personnel. These training programs will focus on areas such as:
-
Professional ethics
-
Communication and public dealing
-
Technical understanding of bodycams
-
Operational protocols
-
Use of digital monitoring systems
Additionally, Maryam Nawaz granted approval for the establishment of a state-of-the-art PERA Training Centre. This dedicated institution will ensure continuous learning, standardized training modules and long-term skill development for officers.
The training center will help produce a disciplined, modern, and technologically competent enforcement force capable of meeting the province’s evolving governance challenges.
Public-Friendly & Dignified Behavior Made Mandatory
One of the key directives issued by the Punjab CM was the requirement for PERA personnel to maintain a polite, friendly and respectful attitude during interactions with citizens. She highlighted that enforcement does not mean intimidation; rather, officers must ensure that their presence reflects professionalism and dignity.
Maryam Nawaz stressed that history remembers those who create ease and provide service to the public. She encouraged PERA Force members to uphold the highest moral and ethical standards, as their conduct directly influences public perception of government institutions.
According to her, using body cameras for PERA Force members will also encourage better behavior, creating a win-win situation for both officers and the public.
Enhancing PERA Monitoring & Evaluation System
Officials briefed the Chief Minister on the current monitoring mechanisms, digital reporting tools and oversight procedures used by PERA. After reviewing the system, Maryam Nawaz approved several reforms designed to streamline evaluation processes and improve internal accountability.
Among the proposed improvements were:
-
Digital integration of bodycam footage
-
Real-time monitoring of field activities
-
Automated reporting to minimize manual errors
-
Increased supervisory oversight
-
Faster complaint resolution mechanisms
These enhancements will significantly boost the efficiency and reliability of PERA operations.
A Forward-Looking Vision for PERA Force
Maryam Nawaz Sharif praised the positive performance of PERA Force to date but emphasized the need for stronger focus, greater dedication and measurable outcomes. She stated that the force must continue working with integrity and consistency to earn goodwill among the public.
The introduction of body cameras for PERA Force, coupled with electric vehicles, advanced training, improved monitoring systems and mandatory professional behavior, highlights the government’s commitment to modernizing enforcement institutions in Punjab.
Conclusion
Punjab’s decision to deploy bodycams for all PERA Force operations marks a transformative shift toward transparent governance. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the reforms aim to eliminate bribery, prevent abuse of authority and improve public confidence in regulatory enforcement.
With the integration of digital tools, professional training and citizen-friendly conduct, PERA Force is set to become one of the most modern and accountable enforcement bodies in Pakistan. The initiative not only strengthens service delivery but also reinforces the principle that public institutions must operate with transparency, integrity and respect.
