Section 144 has been enacted in several cities across Punjab in anticipation of a protest by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) scheduled for October 5. Authorities are taking precautionary measures, including the placement of containers around Minar-e-Pakistan and a significant police presence in the area.
The enforcement of Section 144, which bans public gatherings, applies to Lahore, Rawalpindi, Attock, and Sargodha, and has prompted the deployment of Rangers. A legal challenge has been filed against the six-day imposition of Section 144 in Lahore.
Preventative measures surrounding Minar-e-Pakistan, the site of the planned protest, include the positioning of containers and a substantial police force at Greater Iqbal Park.
Section 144 and Rangers Deployment
Citing potential PTI protests and terrorism risks, Section 144 has been imposed in the four Punjab cities. Rangers have been summoned to help maintain order in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Attock.
The Punjab Home Department’s order prohibits all political gatherings, sit-ins, rallies, demonstrations, and protests in these locations. Six companies of Rangers are scheduled for deployment in Rawalpindi and Attock on October 4 and 5, with ten platoons of Frontier Constabulary also recommended for Attock. Additionally, three companies of Rangers have been requested for Lahore on October 5.
The Section 144 order will remain in effect for three days (October 4-6) in Rawalpindi, Attock, and Sargodha, while it will last six days (October 3-8) in Lahore. This decision was made following recommendations from district administrations.
A spokesperson for the Home Department stated that due to security concerns, any public gathering could serve as a soft target for terrorists. The orders were issued to ensure peace, protect lives, and safeguard property. Notifications regarding the implementation of Section 144 have been issued, and requests have been sent to the federal Ministry of Interior for Ranger deployments.
