Anti-encroachment drive: Commissioner urged to take note of officials’ ‘harsh’ attitude

PESHAWAR: Former governor Haji Ghulam Ali has criticised the attitude of some officials of the local administration during ongoing anti-encroachment operations in the provincial capital.

In a statement, he called upon Commissioner, Peshawar Division, Riaz Mehsud to take immediate notice of what he described as “arrogant and humiliating” behaviour toward the city’s business community.

Ghulam Ali accused the subordinate officers of treating traders as if they were subordinates or criminals, stating that such attitudes were unbecoming of public servants. “Officials must be trained to understand the meaning of decency, values, and traditions. They are not masters, and the public is not their servant,” he remarked.

Referring to frequent demolitions and aggressive operations in markets, the former governor expressed deep concern over what he called a pattern of disrespect and verbal abuse from district officials. “These are the actions of those who have no understanding of the province’s cultural values,” he said. “Even in the most civilized societies, encroachments are handled with dignity to avoid spreading resentment.”

He praised Commissioner Riaz Mehsud as a sensible and people-friendly officer and urged him to convene a meeting of all assistant commissioners to instill a more respectful and collaborative approach. “Respect begins with a greeting, not aggression,” he added.