Prominent Pakistani actor Saba Qamar has publicly responded to a legal petition filed against her concerning her appearance in a Punjab Police uniform. The controversy stems from behind-the-scenes content shared on social media.
The Legal Challenge and Qamar's Fiery Response
A citizen named Wasim Zawar filed a petition in the Lahore sessions court, seeking the registration of a criminal case against the star. The petitioner claims that Qamar was seen in a dressing room wearing a police uniform with a Superintendent of Police (SP) rank badge in videos and photos circulated online during the airing of her 2023 drama 'Serial Killer'.
In a strong rebuttal, Saba Qamar took to her Instagram story to address the issue. She shared a screenshot of the news about the petition alongside a letter dated September 2021. This letter was addressed to the Deputy Inspector General of Lahore Operations, requesting permission to buy and use a police uniform for a 'DGPR Punjab project aimed at Pakistan's image betterment'.
The 'Baaghi' star described the legal move as an attempt to gain 'publicity' by using her fame. 'Kindly look elsewhere for publicity,' she wrote, stressing that her achievements are born from 'hard work' and advising detractors to focus on their own journeys.
Court Proceedings and Specific Allegations
The petition was heard by an additional sessions judge, who has adjourned proceedings and directed the police to submit a report on the issue by January 14. The petitioner informed the court that a prior application had been submitted to the Old Anarkali police station, but no action was taken.
It is crucial to note that the petition does not challenge Qamar's use of the uniform within the drama 'Serial Killer' itself, for which a valid No-Objection Certificate (NOC) was obtained. Instead, it questions the alleged use of the attire in social media content unrelated to the show's broadcast. The plea argues this could mislead the public and damage trust in law enforcement.
The petitioner maintains that offences were committed under Section 171 of the Pakistan Penal Code (wearing the garb of a public servant with fraudulent intent) and Section 419 (cheating by personation).
Legal Gravity and Awaiting Clarification
Legal observers highlight that cases involving the misuse of official uniforms are treated with seriousness under Pakistani law, especially when high-profile public figures are involved. The court is now seeking clarity on whether any formal permission existed for the disputed behind-the-scenes footage.
While neither Qamar nor her representatives had issued an official statement earlier, the actor's decision to publicly share the 2021 permission letter marks her definitive stance against the allegations. She has framed the petition as a publicity-seeking maneuver. All eyes are now on the police report due in January, which will determine the course of further legal proceedings.
