The Punjab Home Department has imposed Section 144 across the province. The restriction bans all political assemblies, rallies, and sit-ins on Saturday (tomorrow). The decision comes ahead of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) planned protest against alleged rigging in the February 8, 2024 general elections.
Section 144: What It Means?
Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure allows authorities to ban public gatherings of four or more people. The restriction helps maintain law and order for a limited period.
PTI, founded by jailed Imran Khan, has announced protests on February 8. The party calls the general elections “rigged” and wants to mark the first anniversary of alleged electoral manipulation.
The Punjab government says the restriction aims to protect lives and properties. A spokesperson of the Home Department stated that the decision followed recommendations from the cabinet committee on law and order and the provincial intelligence committee.
On Thursday, the Lahore city district administration denied PTI’s request to hold a public gathering at Minar-e-Pakistan. The deputy commissioner cited security risks as the reason for rejecting the application.
Talks With Govt Collapse
PTI initially engaged in negotiations with the government. However, talks fell apart after authorities refused to form a judicial commission to probe the May 9 riots and November 2024 protests. The party then decided to launch nationwide protests.
Besides Punjab, PTI has announced a rally in Swabi on February 8. PTI Khyber Pakhtunkhwa President Junaid Akbar warned of agitation against the ruling coalition. He claimed the government misunderstood PTI’s willingness for dialogue as a sign of weakness.
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Govt Alleges Misuse of State Resources
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif criticized the PTI-led KP government. He accused Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur of using state machinery and public funds for the Swabi rally. He feared that the KP government would force employees to attend the event.
Asif also challenged PTI to stage protests in Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan. He said PTI claims its mandate was stolen in these provinces but only holds demonstrations in KP, where it remains in power.
The political landscape remains tense ahead of PTI’s planned demonstrations. Authorities in Punjab and other provinces are on high alert. The government is determined to prevent unrest, while PTI remains firm on its protest plans.
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