The Islamabad administration has imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) in the federal capital for the next two months. This decision comes ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest scheduled for November 24, 2024.
The notification, issued by Additional Deputy Commissioner Usman Ashraf:
Reasons for Imposition
The administration received intelligence reports indicating that certain groups were planning to organize rallies and processions in Islamabad, which is likely to disrupt public peace and tranquility, cause public annoyance, and pose a threat to human life and property.
Given the prevailing security situation, the authorities decided to reimpose Section 144, which had previously expired on November 17, 2024
Restrictions Under Section 144
Section 144 prohibits gatherings of five or more people, processions, rallies, and demonstrations in the capital city, In this restriction order the use of loudspeakers, sound systems, and fireworks is strictly banned, Additionally, the display and exhibition of firearms, except by members of the armed forces, police, and paramilitary forces, are prohibited.
PTI’s Protest Plans
PTI has finalized its strategy for a peaceful protest on 24th November, with plans to converge on Islamabad from all directions.
The party will exert pressure on the authorities to release its founding chairman Imran Khan from jail and protest over the passage of the 26th constitutional amendment.
PTI leaders have emphasized their commitment to a peaceful political struggle and the constitutional right to freedom of speech and protest.
