The Punjab government has enforced Section 144 across the province, citing concerns over the current law and order situation. This measure, effective immediately and set to last for seven days, prohibits protests and public gatherings.
The decision coincides with planned nationwide protests by the PTI, aimed at securing the release of their detained leader, Imran Khan. The Home Department's directive, disclosed by Dawn.com, underscores Section 144's authority to restrict activities deemed detrimental to public interest, especially amid prevailing security risks.
According to the official order, the rationale behind this restriction is to prevent gatherings from becoming potential targets for security threats, thereby safeguarding public safety and order. Although specific grounds for the ban were not detailed, the order emphasizes the necessity for immediate action to maintain peace and mitigate potential disturbances.
Activities prohibited under Section 144 include assemblies, rallies, demonstrations, sit-ins, and other forms of public protests. The PTI has responded critically, alleging police raids on party leaders' residences and offices in Khanewal. Leader of the Opposition Omar Ayub denounced the Section 144 imposition in the National Assembly, questioning its constitutional validity, while PTI spokesperson Raoof Hasan condemned it as a suppressive tactic against supporters of Imran Khan.
The situation remains tense as political tensions escalate amidst the government's crackdown on public demonstrations.
0 Comments