The Punjab government announced a five-day prohibition on public gatherings across the province starting Sunday, following multiple credible warnings about potential terrorist attacks. These restrictions, enforced under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), will remain effective until September 17 (Thursday), as stated in an official notification from the Home Department.

The notification highlighted that law enforcement and intelligence agencies have received serious and imminent threat reports concerning public safety and peace in Punjab. These threats reportedly originate from militant groups and hostile intelligence agencies, raising concerns over the security of life and property throughout the province.

Intelligence agencies have issued several alerts indicating the possibility of attacks involving suicide bombers, vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs), and targeted killings. Such incidents are feared to occur during large public gatherings, aiming to incite chaos, social unrest, and disrupt public order.

The Home Department emphasized that public assemblies and demonstrations could be prime targets for these terrorist activities. There is also a strong concern that certain groups might organize events or protests likely to attract large crowds, thereby increasing vulnerability to attacks.

In response, the Punjab police chief, Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), Special Branch of Punjab Police, and various district administrations have urged immediate preventive actions to mitigate these risks.

Under the imposed restrictions, any processions or gatherings of five or more individuals in public spaces, including roads, highways, and open areas, are banned from September 13 through September 17. Exceptions to this ban include marriage ceremonies, funeral prayers, religious gatherings at mosques and other places of worship, court proceedings, and official government functions.

Additionally, the Home Department has forbidden incitement to participate in unlawful assemblies. Separate restrictions have also been placed on carrying, displaying, or brandishing weapons in public areas. However, these weapons-related limitations do not apply to law enforcement, intelligence, and security personnel while performing their official duties.

This move reflects the authorities’ heightened vigilance amid ongoing concerns about militant activities, aiming to prevent large-scale gatherings from becoming targets of terrorist attacks.