The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 in eight cities, effective from October 10 to October 12. This measure prohibits all political gatherings, protests, and demonstrations in response to planned activities by the opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
The cities affected by this order include Multan, Sahiwal, Sargodha, Gujranwala, Vehari, Pakpattan, Okara, and Wazirabad. The decision was made at the request of local district administrations, according to a spokesperson from the Punjab Home Department.
The enforcement of Section 144 comes as PTI has announced a series of protests across Punjab, including in Lahore, aimed at advocating for constitutional supremacy, judicial independence, and the release of its leader, Imran Khan, who is currently imprisoned in Adiala Jail. The party’s political committee has planned simultaneous rallies in six districts between October 11 and October 14.
Officials have cited security concerns as a primary reason for the restrictions, warning that public gatherings could be vulnerable to potential terrorist attacks. The spokesperson emphasized that the imposition of Section 144 is intended to maintain law and order and ensure the safety of citizens and property.
This latest action reflects the ongoing tensions in Punjab’s political landscape, as the government seeks to manage opposition activities while balancing the right to peaceful assembly. The implications of these restrictions on PTI’s planned protests and the broader political climate in the region will be closely monitored in the coming days.