Section 144 extended across province

The Punjab government on Sunday extended the enforcement of Section 144 across the province for seven days, imposing a ban on all forms of protests, rallies, processions, sit-ins, gatherings, and similar activities until November 15.

According to a notification issued by the Punjab Home Department, Section 144 prohibits four or more people from assembling at public places, the display of any kind of weapons, and the use of loudspeakers.

The publication and distribution of provocative, hate or sectarian material is also banned.

A spokesperson for the department said the extension has been made to maintain law and order and protect lives and property.

The decision was taken in light of terrorism and public safety concerns, as public gatherings and demonstrations could be exploited by malicious elements to carry out anti-state activities, the spokesperson added.

The spokesperson clarified that the restrictions under Section 144 will not apply to wedding ceremonies, funerals, official duties of government officers, or courts. Loudspeakers are permitted only for the call to prayer and Friday sermons.