LAHORE: The Punjab government has enforced Section 144 across the province for 10 days, effective immediately, citing serious security concerns.
According to a notification issued by the Home Department, credible intelligence reports from law enforcement agencies have warned of potential threats to public peace and the safety of life and property.
The reports also pointed to possible terrorist activities involving groups such as RAW, TTP, and BLA. Authorities fear that certain political and sectarian elements could organize demonstrations or gatherings that might disturb public order.
In response, the Home Department has imposed a ban on public assemblies, processions, sit-ins, the carrying of weapons, use of loudspeakers, and distribution of inflammatory materials. The restrictions will remain in place for 10 days.
A day earlier, the Rawalpindi administration had already implemented Section 144 for four days following Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan’s (TLP) announcement of an “Aqsa March” towards the US Embassy in Islamabad to protest American support for Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Rawalpindi’s Deputy Commissioner Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema issued the order on the advice of the District Intelligence Committee, which warned of a “serious risk” to lives, property, and public infrastructure, particularly in sensitive areas.
The notification added that intelligence reports indicated certain groups were mobilizing to disrupt peace through large-scale protests and gatherings.