LAHORE: The Punjab Home Department has imposed Section 144 across the province and Islamabad, banning public gatherings and rallies for three days. According to the notification issued on Wednesday, Section 144 will be in effect from Friday, July 26 to Sunday, July 28.
The ban aims to maintain law and order and prevent potential terrorist threats. The notification stated that the administration would ensure the implementation of the order across Punjab and Islamabad. The imposition of Section 144 prohibits gatherings of five or more people, and any violation of the order can lead to legal action.
This move comes ahead of a country-wide protest announced by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led opposition alliance. The protests, scheduled for Friday, aim to demand the release of ‘innocent’ prisoners, including party chairman Imran Khan. Speaking to the media after a meeting of the Tehreek-e-Tahaffuz-e-Ayen, former Speaker of the National Assembly Asad Qaiser stated that they would be holding ‘peaceful’ demonstrations across the country on Friday.
The opposition alliance has outlined three primary demands: an end to sky-rocketing inflation, the establishment of peace, and the release of PTI founder Imran Khan and other political prisoners allegedly detained on ‘fabricated’ charges. “The incumbent federal government enjoys a fake mandate,” Asad Qaiser added.
The imposition of Section 144 highlights the government’s concern over maintaining public order amid the political unrest. The measure underscores the administration’s efforts to prevent any escalation of violence or disruption during the protests. As tensions rise, the effectiveness of this measure in preventing disruptions and ensuring safety remains to be seen.
The coming days will test the government’s ability to enforce the ban and manage the political dissent expressed by PTI and its supporters. The nation watches closely as the situation develops, with the hope that peace and order will be maintained during this politically charged period.
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