Authorities in several Khyber Pakhtunkhwa districts have imposed Section 144, which bans gatherings, rallies, processions, protests and the carrying of arms, according to official notifications. The move comes alongside a federal decision to send Pakistan Army troops into the province to support civil authorities.
The federal government has notified the deployment, which has been approved under Article 245 of the Constitution and will run for the duration of the emergency declared on October 11. The notification says the aim is to protect citizens’ lives, property and government installations. The Army will help maintain law and order, and the provincial governor, consulting General Headquarters, will decide how many troops and what resources are needed.
District-level bans on political gatherings and rallies
In Shangla, the district administration has banned political rallies, processions and gatherings, and has also outlawed hate speech, for 30 days. The restrictions are aimed at keeping law and order in place.
Deputy Commissioner Buner has imposed a complete ban on political gatherings, hate speech and the display of weapons for the same 30-day period. Officials there have warned that violators could face action under section 188.
In Hangu, Upper Dir, Lower Dir, and Upper and Lower Chitral, Section 144 prohibits any gathering of five or more people, along with unauthorised rallies. Administrations in these areas have announced legal action against anyone who breaks the orders.
Chitral has also closed all academic institutions, and the authorities have urged residents to cooperate with the enforcement of the orders.
Rawalpindi places security on high alert
Security has been raised to high alert in the garrison city of Rawalpindi and nearby areas, according to police. Police said people who violate Section 144 will be arrested, and strict surveillance has been put in place at every entry and exit point of the city.
Additional police units have been posted in key areas of the city, and officers carried out a special flag march to reassure residents and maintain order. City Police Officer Hassan Mushtaq Sukhera visited several localities to inspect security arrangements.
Sukhera said work to ensure peace and stability is continuing. He warned that the police would take a zero-tolerance approach to any breach of Section 144.
