SAFDAR RASHEED

LAHORE: The Punjab Home Department has imposed Section 144 across the province to maintain law and order. A complete ban has been imposed on gatherings, processions or assemblies of five or more people at public places, roads, highways and open spaces.

According to the notification, carrying, displaying or brandishing all kinds of weapons at public places has also been completely prohibited. Similarly, inciting or encouraging people to participate in unlawful assemblies has been banned.

Punjab Home Department clarified that the restrictions imposed under Section 144 will not apply to marriage ceremonies, funeral prayers, burials, or prayers at mosques and other places of worship. Courts, government institutions and events held with due official permission will also remain exempt from the restrictions. The restrictions will not apply to personnel of law enforcement agencies, intelligence agencies and security agencies while performing official duties. According to the notification issued by the Punjab Home Department, Section 144 will remain in force across Punjab from September 13 to September 17.

The notification states that Section 144 has been imposed in view of serious threats to public peace, tranquillity, and the safety of life and property across the province. Law enforcement agencies and intelligence agencies have reported imminent security threats, while intelligence reports indicate that terrorist organisations are planning to target public gatherings. In view of these threats, there is a possibility that large gatherings at rallies, public meetings, sit-ins, processions and demonstrations could become easy targets for terrorist attacks. Law enforcement agencies had requested immediate preventive measures to address potential terrorist threats and facilitate effective maintenance of law and order.

In this context, the Secretary Home, exercising powers under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, has imposed an immediate ban on public gatherings across the province. The spokesperson said that protection of the lives and property of the people remains the foremost priority of the Government of Punjab. The Punjab Home Department has issued a notification for the immediate enforcement of Section 144 across the province.