Section 144 Imposed Across Punjab from Today Until October 15; Complete Ban on Public Gatherings, Rallies, and Protests
LAHORE: Punjab Home Department has officially issued a notification under the Section 144 in all of Punjab for maintaining public order and security, from now till October 15.
The official notification states that a total lockdown has been imposed on all public places, highways, open areas and gatherings of 5 or more people, processions, rallies, public meetings and sit-ins. Moreover, it is strictly forbidden to carry or display any kind of weapon in public places and to incite people to join illegal assemblies.
Certain points are highlighted in the Punjab Home Department Notification.There are some key points highlighted in the Punjab Home Department Notification.
Exceptions to the Order: The ban won’t extend to wedding ceremonies, funeral prayers, burials, congregations within formal places of worship such as mosques. This exemption also applies to official public events and courts and government premises.
Law Enforcement Exemption: All law enforcement, intelligence and security personnel on active duty are exempt of restrictions.
Security Rationale and Intelligence Warnings: The Home Department said the decision was made due to the pressing threat reports from law enforcement and intelligence agencies. Mass assemblies are susceptible targets and intelligence briefings indicated that terrorist organizations were preparing to attack major public events. Therefore, the provisions of Section 144 has been invoked to protect public life and property.