Section 144 in Rawalpindi amid threat from ‘multiple groups’

RAWALPINDI: District administration on Monday imposed Section 144 in Rawalpindi, saying different groups could disturb law and order in the district, as the PTI plans to stage countrywide protest to press for the release of Imran Khan — the jailed party founder.

On the other hand, reports suggest that the PTI parliamentarians have finalised details to protest outside the Adiala jail — Central Jail Rawalpindi — where Imran is imprisoned after his conviction.

Read more: Imran opposes military operation in erstwhile FATA yet again

The PTI has selected August 5 as a day to register its protest, while the imposition of Section 144 will remain in effect until August 10.

It is the reason why the notification says there would be a blanket ban on rallies, sit-ins, public gatherings and processions.

At the same time, the loud speaker use is also not allowed during this seven-day period and the speeches inciting violence have also been prohibited under the Section 144.

Meanwhile, the PTI is facing the consequences of the May 9 violent protests. The anti-terrorism courts have now sped up the process of hearing the cases, with multiple party leaders and workers sentenced for their involvement in attacks on sensitive installations and other government offices in Mianwali, Faisalabad and Lahore.

Read more: Tarar says opposition declaration a joke, May 9 convictions on merit

IT’S VERY IMPORTANT

Rawalpindi is a sensitive city for more than one reason. It is the home to the GHQ — the Pakistan Army headquarters — and other important military installations. At the same time, it is located next to Islamabad, the federal capital.

The GHQ was previously witnessed a terrorist attack Oct 10, 2009.

And 13 years later, it was attacked again on May 9, 2023.

Read more: PTI protest: Over 300 held in Lahore; focus shifts to Adiala Jail

Separately, the Balochistan government on August 1 had notified the imposition of Section 144 for a 15-day period, as the province grapples with terrorism acts of groups sponsored by India.