Section 144 imposed across Punjab, Balochistan

LAHORE/QUETTA: In view of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)’s call for holding nationwide protest tomorrow (Saturday, February 8), Section 144 has been imposed in Punjab and Balochistan to maintain law and order.

PTI have announced to observe ‘black day’ tomorrow following the call of its founder Imran Khan.

The directive, effective immediately, has banned rallies, sit-ins, and gatherings of more than five people in both provinces. 

According to a post on Punjab Home Department’s official X account, a complete ban on all forms of political demonstrations, rallies, and public gatherings has been enforced for February 8. 

The Home Department cited security concerns, stating that public protests could serve as soft targets for terrorist attacks. It warned that miscreants might exploit such gatherings to engage in anti-state activities. 

The decision was reportedly made based on recommendations from the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order and the Provincial Intelligence Committee. 

Meanwhile, the Balochistan Home Department also issued a formal notification enforcing Section 144 throughout the province for 15 days.

According to the Balochistan government spokesperson, a complete ban has been imposed on the display and use of firearms.

The directive, effective immediately, also banned sit-ins, rallies, and gatherings of more than five people for 15 days.  The ban will remain in place until February 22.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, the Lahore administration turned down the PTI’s request to hold a protest rally at Minar-e-Pakistan on February 8, citing security concerns and other engagements. 

PTI Punjab Chief Organiser Aliya Hamza had submitted an application to Lahore Deputy Commissioner Syed Musa Raza seeking permission for holding the rally.

She announced that the rally would be a protest against “the attack on the party’s mandate” during the polling across the country on February 8, 2024. She had further said that legal avenues would be pursued if permission was denied, warning that the party would not tolerate restrictions and would observe a day of protest if necessary.

However, the city administration rejected the PTI’s request on recommendations from the District Intelligence Committee. The administration also highlighted multiple events scheduled in the city, including cricket match, cattle show, and speakers’ conference, as reasons for the denial.