Sara Sadiq :
Quetta — Shabana Habib Tareen, the trailblazing Deputy Superintendent of Police (Traffic) in Quetta, is reshaping societal norms and advocating for gender equality in a male-dominated field.
Her journey, from humble beginnings to becoming a symbol of women’s empowerment, highlights her commitment to justice, road safety, and women’s rights in Balochistan.
Early Life and Inspiration
Born in a traditional family in Quetta, Shabana grew up with a passion for justice. Her father, a teacher, dreamt of seeing his son in law enforcement. However, when her brother pursued a different path, Shabana took it upon herself to fulfill this dream. Today, her two daughters are also inspired to follow in her footsteps.
Despite societal expectations, Shabana joined the police force in 1994 as one of the first female officers trained at Sihala Police Academy. Her journey into law enforcement was not only a personal triumph but also a bold challenge to gender stereotypes in Balochistan.
Career Achievements
Breaking Gender Barriers: Shabana faced skepticism from colleagues and the public but proved her competence through action. Her leadership as one of Balochistan’s few female officers shattered stereotypes and established her authority.
Promoting Road Safety: As DSP (Traffic), she implemented stringent traffic laws in Quetta, improving road discipline and public safety.
Advocating Women’s Rights: Beyond her professional duties, Shabana has championed women’s empowerment, raising awareness on issues like domestic violence and honor killings. Her efforts include establishing schools for girls in her community, enabling access to education for countless young women.
Personal Triumphs
Balancing family responsibilities and professional challenges, Shabana excelled in the 2012 Central Superior Services (CSS) examination, securing the top rank in Balochistan and ranking 21st nationally. Her success inspired women across Pakistan to pursue civil service careers.
Impact on Society
Shabana’s influence extends far beyond her role in law enforcement. By promoting education, engaging with local communities, and advocating for women’s rights, she has become a beacon of hope in Balochistan. Her initiatives include transforming a primary school in her village into a high school and college, empowering future generations through education.
Broader Implications
Shabana’s leadership role challenges societal norms, inspiring a cultural shift toward recognizing women’s contributions in all sectors. As a role model for countless young women, she underscores the potential for change when individuals defy limitations.
Shabana’s story is more than a personal success; it symbolizes progress for women’s rights in Pakistan. Her work calls for policy reforms to ensure women’s voices are heard and protected, paving the way for a more equitable future.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Balochistan and beyond.
