On Monday, Islamabad police asserted that the law and order situation in the federal capital was “under control,” refuting claims of the closure of universities. Contrary to reports in the media, no official notification had been issued regarding the shutdown of educational institutions. Police sources mentioned heightened security measures in light of the upcoming elections and an ongoing sit-in by Baloch protesters at the press club.
In a video statement on social media platform X, Islamabad police chief Dr. Akbar Nasir emphasized that despite rumors, the security and law and order situation in Islamabad remained stable.
He disclosed a ban on illegal gatherings in the city and urged cooperation from citizens. While providing security for such events, Nasir emphasized the need for a collaborative effort. He reassured residents that there was no immediate need to disrupt daily life by avoiding schools or colleges and encouraged them to follow police social media accounts for updates.
Addressing the situation, Ali Khan, the focal person to Islamabad’s additional deputy commissioner, informed that no official notification regarding the closure of educational institutions had been issued.
Responding to concerns, caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi clarified that security alerts were issued based on threats to public safety and not related to the upcoming polls scheduled for February 8.
He expressed confidence in the capabilities of security agencies to ensure the safety of citizens during elections, citing successful past elections despite security challenges.
With a rise in terrorism in the weeks leading up to the polls, including the recent killing of an independent candidate, the government and security officials assured the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) of their readiness to handle any situation.
During a meeting chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, preparations for the February 8 elections, particularly focusing on the law and order situation, were reviewed. Former interior minister Sarfraz Ahmad Bugti had previously affirmed that the ECP would receive full security support for conducting peaceful elections.
