Section 144 imposed in Islamabad as Punjab restricts public gatherings

ISLAMABAD: Section 144 has been imposed in Islamabad, with the district administration prohibiting public gatherings, rallies and assemblies in the federal capital and warning of legal action against violations.

According to the district administration’s notification, gatherings of any kind are prohibited in Islamabad under Section 144. The administration has directed citizens to comply with the restrictions.

The notification also said that restrictions on public gatherings are in place under the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, 2024, and will be enforced accordingly.

Authorities warned that individuals or groups violating the restrictions will face action under the law. The administration also directed relevant institutions to ensure strict implementation of the orders.

Meanwhile, the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province for 13 days, banning public gatherings of five or more people, rallies, processions and demonstrations.

The restrictions were imposed amid security alerts over possible terrorist attacks targeting large public gatherings, according to the Punjab Home Department. The order also prohibits carrying or displaying weapons in public places, with exemptions for law-enforcement and security personnel performing official duties.

Rangers sought in four Punjab districts

The Punjab government has also requested the deployment of Rangers in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum and Mianwali to assist police in maintaining law and order. The requested deployment is to continue until October 5.

Three Rangers companies have been sought for Rawalpindi, five wings for Attock, and one company each for Jhelum and Mianwali.

The measures come as authorities prepare for a planned political march towards Islamabad later this month. Separately, the government has announced closures of parts of the M-1, M-14 and GT Road from Wednesday evening to restrict access towards the federal capital.