The federal government has granted the Pakistan Army special powers to maintain law and order in Islamabad amidst intensifying protests. A formal notification confirms that the army now holds the authority to employ force, including weapons, should tensions escalate. In critical situations, they are authorized to take decisive actions.
The notification outlines that soldiers can respond immediately if fired upon and have been granted the power to arrest individuals identified as miscreants. The army’s powers have been extended under the Anti-Terrorism Act, enabling them to use baton charges and tear gas against demonstrators.
Additionally, the army is authorized to act preemptively based on credible intelligence regarding potential threats or the presence of violent individuals. The military will closely coordinate with federal police, with local commanders leading joint operations to restore peace in the capital.
In situations where police numbers are insufficient, army personnel are empowered to arrest individuals involved in violence. The notification stressed that these enhanced measures are temporary and solely intended to restore public order during ongoing demonstrations.
On Friday night, Pakistan Army troops formally assumed responsibility for security in Islamabad under Article 245 of the Constitution. Sources from the Interior Ministry confirmed that the army was deployed to safeguard lives and property, with support from police and other agencies.
The deployment is now fully in place, with troops positioned around D-Chowk, where Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) plans to hold a protest on Saturday. Army personnel have already commenced patrolling across the city to ensure the safety of citizens, with security forces making it clear that no disruptive elements will be allowed to jeopardize the peace.
