ISLAMABAD, Jan 16 (APP): The federal government on Friday told the National Assembly that digital systems were already in place to monitor hostels, hotels and guest houses in Islamabad, as concerns continue to grow over the safety, security and living conditions of working women residing in private hostels in the capital.
Responding to a question by MNA Aliya Kamran, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said that although the issue of hostel regulation does not directly fall under the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police, digital records of hostels, hotels and guest houses are being maintained by the Safe City and Operations Wing of Islamabad Police through dedicated software systems.
He said the “Hotel Eye” software is used to maintain records of residents, while the “Travel Eye” software is used to track travellers, enabling real-time monitoring and reporting for enhanced security.
He added that a recent survey of Islamabad residents was also being conducted in coordination with the Deputy Commissioner’s Office, during which records of female residents were being compiled.
The minister confirmed that a system for record-keeping exists and is operational, though he reiterated that formal registration and regulation of hostels does not fall directly under ICT Police’s mandate.
On concerns about safety and facilities, Talal Chaudhry said that any report or information regarding a cognisable offence against working women is dealt with strictly in accordance with the law. In this regard, reports were sought from all police stations through zonal superintendents of police.
He informed the House that one serious incident was reported involving the murder of a woman, Eman Feroz, at a ladies’ hostel.
An FIR (No. 261 dated April 19, 2025) under Section 302 of the Pakistan Penal Code was registered at Ramna Police Station. The accused was arrested and sent to judicial custody, and the case is currently under trial.
The minister also highlighted that several helplines have been established to facilitate citizens, including 15 (Emergency Helpline), 1715 (IGP Complaint Cell), and 1815 (Women’s Helpline). In addition, an Online Women Police Station has been set up at Safe City Islamabad to handle complaints, incidents and violations related to women.
Outlining further steps to improve safety and oversight, Talal Chaudhry said a range of corrective and facilitative measures are being implemented. These include the establishment of Women Facilitation Desks at police stations to provide a safe and gender-sensitive environment, technology-enabled police stations staffed by trained female officers, and mobile policing units—also known as “Police Stations on Wheels”—to provide on-the-spot services and complaint registration.
He added that a dedicated women’s police station staffed entirely by female officers is also operational, and that joint patrolling by male and female police officials is being conducted to ensure inclusive and effective policing across the capital.