Islamabad Police have introduced a new leave policy for 2026. Under the new rules, all police officers and staff must get one day off every week.
The policy also explains leave rules for Hajj, Umrah, medical needs, marriage and examinations. It also sets limits on how many employees can take leave at the same time.
Inspector General of Police Muhammad Sohail Chaudhry has ordered all police divisions to start following the policy immediately.
What are the weekly rest and leave rules?
Every police officer and staff member will get one day of weekly rest. This day will be separate from other leave entitlements.
The policy also limits the number of employees who can take leave at the same time. No more than 10 per cent of staff in a unit or division can take casual leave at once. For travel outside Pakistan, the limit is 3 per cent.
Police personnel posted away from their home districts can take seven days of leave after completing 45 days of duty. They can take 14 days of leave after 90 days of duty.
Who can approve police leave?
The policy assigns leave approval powers to senior officers based on their ranks and responsibilities.
Station House Officers (SHOs) can approve up to three days of casual leave for constables and head constables. Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) can approve up to five days.
Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) can grant three days of casual leave to inspectors and SHOs.
Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs) can approve all types of leave for personnel from constable to inspector. The Inspector General can approve casual leave for all ranks. The IG can also approve earned leave for officers up to the ranks of SP and DSP.
How much leave is allowed for Hajj, Umrah and marriage?
The new policy sets the following leave periods for different needs:
- Hajj: 45 days
- Umrah and other religious visits: 21 days
- Marriage for female personnel: One month
- Marriage for male personnel: 10 days
- CSS and PCS examinations: Up to 20 days
- Examination interviews: Up to 15 additional days
Medical leave will also be available to police personnel according to their health needs.
When will the new policy take effect?
The Inspector General has directed all divisions to enforce the new rules without delay.
