The Punjab Home Department and Islamabad’s local administration enacted Section 144 across Punjab and Islamabad. This measure is intended to restrict public gatherings due to anticipated nationwide protests organized by Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) scheduled for July 26.
What is Section 144?
Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure is a legal provision that allows district administrations to ban assemblies of four or more people in an area for a specified period. This is generally implemented to prevent disturbances, maintain public order, and reduce the risk of violence.
PTI’s Protest Plans
PTI leader Asad Qaiser has called for nationwide protests on July 26, demanding the release of political prisoners, including Imran Khan. Mehmood Khan Achakzai, chief of the opposition alliance Tehreek Tahaffuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP), has also announced a major protest on the same day with support from JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman.
Government’s Response
The Punjab Home Department issued an order citing concerns that political gatherings could become targets for terrorists and miscreants. The order, effective from July 26 to 28, prohibits all political assemblies, rallies, demonstrations, and protests to ensure public safety and prevent disturbances.
Islamabad’s Measures
Islamabad’s district administration similarly announced that Section 144 is in effect in the capital. This order bans all rallies and protests, with a warning that violations will lead to strict legal action. Police forces have been deployed to enforce these restrictions.
Public Warnings
Islamabad police have emphasized that no gatherings are permitted without prior approval. They have heightened security due to Muharram observances and warned that any violations will be met with severe consequences.
Opposition Leader’s Call to Action
Opposition Leader Omar Ayub has called for nationwide participation in peaceful protests. The protests are aimed at securing the release of PTI leaders, addressing national peace, and protesting against rising inflation. Ayub stressed the need for fair and transparent elections to achieve these objectives.
Jamaat-i-Islami’s Planned Sit-In
Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) is also organizing a sit-in in Islamabad on July 26. The protest will focus on reducing electricity tariffs, removing the slab system for power rates, and reviewing agreements with independent power producers. Despite the Section 144 restrictions, JI has pledged to proceed with their sit-in at D-Chowk.
Conclusion
The imposition of Section 144 reflects heightened security concerns and ongoing political unrest in the region, with both government authorities and opposition groups preparing for significant demonstrations.