Section 144 imposed in federal capital for two months

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Capital Territory Administration has imposed section 144 in the federal capital for two months, banning gathering of more than four people.

According to a notification issued by the district magistrate, Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code has been imposed across the ICT.

Section 144 is a legal provision that authorises the district administration to restrict the gathering of four or more people in a designated area for a specific period of time.

The notification — dated November 18 — stated that the order was enforced because “certain segments of society intend to hold illegal assemblies within the jurisdiction of the Islamabad Capital Territory.”

The order, however, does not specify what type of unlawful gatherings were anticipated.

As per the notification, all kinds of gatherings, rallies, processions and protests of five or more people have been banned within the revenue limits of Islamabad district, including the Red Zone.

The notification further stated that controlling such “illegal activities is necessary for maintaining public peace, tranquility and law and order.”

The order has come into immediate effect and will remain enforced for two months, ending on January 18, 2026.