Sindh Police Issued 10-Day Ultimatum to Stop Gutka Use

The Sindh Police have imposed a 10-day deadline for personnel to cease consuming gutka and mawa, citing health risks and damage to the force’s reputation. This crackdown, driven by widespread addiction within the ranks, demands strict compliance, with disciplinary action looming for those who fail to comply.

On July 13, 2025, Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Imran Qureshi issued a directive to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sindh, Ghulam Nabi Memon, highlighting the alarming prevalence of gutka and mawa use among officers. “It’s a disgrace to see police personnel openly chewing these substances,” Qureshi stated in a letter, as reported by Geo.tv, emphasizing the harm to both health and public perception. The Sindh Police, tasked with upholding law and order, have been criticized for unprofessional behavior, with internal sources estimating over 50% of personnel are habitual users. The directive mandates a detailed list of offenders, with fortnightly reports to the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) Establishment in Karachi to track compliance.

This move follows growing public frustration with the force’s image, tarnished by visible gutka use during patrols. The substances, linked to oral cancer and other health issues, are banned in Sindh, yet enforcement has been lax. Recent seizures, like the 450 kg of gutka confiscated near Vaniyambadi, underscore the challenge of curbing illegal supply chains, some allegedly operating under police patronage. The MoI’s push for a rehabilitation program signals an attempt to address addiction humanely, but skepticism persists about its effectiveness without addressing systemic corruption.

Critics argue that the Sindh government’s focus on gutka distracts from broader issues, like the Sindh Building Control Authority’s (SBCA) failure to tackle illegal constructions or the force’s role in recent security lapses. The ultimatum reflects a rare push for discipline, but its success hinges on rigorous enforcement and accountability. As the deadline looms, the public watches closely, demanding a police force that embodies integrity and professionalism, not just in words but in action.