KARACHI: Authorities in Karachi District enacted section 144, citing rising ‘security’ concerns on Saturday.
The decision follows an increase in tensions and security threats in the city of 18 million people.
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The regulations specifically ban assembles of five or more people near important location, including the Governor’s House and the Chief Minister’s House. These locations have often been a focal point for political protests and other demonstrations.
Authorities restricted the size of the gatherings on the streets surrounding the Sindh Assembly, as well.
The senior superintendent of the police (SSP) for the area warned that “strict legal” action would be taken against anyone that ‘violated’ the orders. The SSP stated that section 144 was enforced to ‘ensure’ that the law and order in the Karachi District were maintained.
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Karachi South District was renamed to Karachi District in 2023 as part of an administrative restructuring. The aim was to consolidate governance and improving the efficiency of local administration.
By unifying the district under a single name, the authorities sought to streamline operations and improve jurisdictional boundaries. This made it easier for officials to centralise authority and resources within the district.