PTI protests: Punjab imposes Section 144, bans gatherings for two days

Move comes a day after PTI announced a nationwide protest at the district level

LAHORE:

The Punjab government has enforced Section 144 across the province, prohibiting all forms of protests, rallies, and public gatherings for two days. The restrictions will be in effect from Friday, October 18, to Saturday, October 19.

The decision was taken to maintain law and order and protect lives and property, with authorities citing security concerns. "In view of the prevailing law and order situation and threat perceptions, any kind of protest or procession could become a soft target for terrorists," the Home Department said in a notification issued on Thursday.

The move came a day after the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) announced a nationwide protest at the district level, urging supporters to gather on October 18 to demonstrate against constitutional amendments and the imprisonment of the party's founding chairman, Imran Khan.

The political committee of PTI, which met on Wednesday, called for peaceful protests across district headquarters after Friday prayers. In a statement, the party condemned the "mistreatment" of Khan, who remains imprisoned in Adiala Jail, and demanded the restoration of his fundamental rights, including access to his family, lawyers, and party leaders.

The committee urged all segments of society that uphold the supremacy of the Constitution to participate peacefully in the demonstrations. It also reiterated its commitment to resist any attempts by the government to amend the Constitution and demanded the release of Khan’s sisters, Aleema Khan and Uzma Khan, along with all detained party members.

The Punjab government stated that the enforcement of Section 144 is a preventive measure to ensure public safety and avert potential unrest.

Meanwhile, the Punjab government has declared a public holiday across the province on Friday, October 18. All public and private institutions, including schools and colleges, will remain closed.

According to an official notification, the holiday applies to all government and private educational institutions. Universities across the province will also remain shut on the day.