ISLAMABAD: The district administration has imposed Section 144 in the federal capital, prohibiting public gatherings, rallies and assemblies, and warned that violations would invite legal action.
According to a notification issued by the Additional District Magistrate, gatherings of any kind have been banned in Islamabad. Citizens have been directed to comply with the restrictions and avoid violating the order.
The administration said restrictions on public assemblies were also in place under the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, 2024, and that the relevant authorities would ensure enforcement of the law.
Officials warned that individuals or groups violating the restrictions would face action under the law. The administration also noted that violations of the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act could carry a prison sentence of up to three years.
Relevant departments have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the restrictions, with the administration saying action would be taken against violators without discrimination.
The public has been advised to check the latest orders and legal requirements before participating in any gathering or assembly in the capital.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province from September 23 to October 5, banning public gatherings of five or more people, rallies and political meetings.
According to a provincial Home Department notification, the restrictions were imposed following intelligence reports indicating that terrorist organisations could target public gatherings. The notification said rallies, demonstrations, sit-ins and other public assemblies could potentially be targeted.
The provincial government said law enforcement agencies had sought immediate security measures to address possible threats. Following the request, the Home Department imposed restrictions on public gatherings under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898.
The Punjab government has also requested the deployment of Rangers in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum and Mianwali to assist the police in maintaining security.
According to the Home Department spokesperson, Rangers personnel will remain deployed in the four districts until October 5. The deployment includes three companies in Rawalpindi, five wings in Attock, and one company each in Jhelum and Mianwali.
The spokesperson said the deployment had been approved by the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order at its 59th meeting and that the request to the federal Interior Ministry was made on the Punjab police’s recommendation.
The spokesperson said protecting the lives and property of citizens remained the Punjab government’s top priority.
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