LAHORE, Oct 06 (APP): The Punjab Home Department has imposed Section 144 across the province from October 6 to 15, banning gatherings of five or more people at public places, roads and open spaces amid security concerns.
According to a Home Department spokesperson, the order also prohibits rallies, processions and public gatherings, as well as carrying or displaying weapons at public places.
The order further bans inciting or encouraging people to participate in unlawful gatherings.
The restrictions would not apply to wedding ceremonies, funeral prayers, burials, mosques and other places of worship. Courts, government institutions and events held with formal permission have also been exempted from the restrictions.
The spokesperson said the restrictions would not apply to law-enforcement, intelligence and security personnel deployed on official duty.
The Home Department said Section 144 was imposed in view of serious threats to public peace and the lives and property of citizens. Law-enforcement agencies and intelligence agencies had reported imminent security threats, including plans by terrorist organisations to target public gatherings, it added.
The department said rallies, public meetings, sit-ins, processions and demonstrations could become potential targets for terrorist attacks, prompting law-enforcement agencies to seek immediate preventive measures.
The Secretary Home imposed the restrictions under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, and issued a notification for their immediate enforcement.
The spokesperson said protection of the lives and property of citizens remains the Punjab government’s top priority.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
