With the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) announcing a protest in Lahore on October 5, authorities are taking preemptive measures. Containers have been placed around Minar-e-Pakistan, and a heavy police presence has been deployed in the area. Furthermore, Section 144, prohibiting public gatherings, has been imposed in four Punjab cities, and Rangers have been called in. A legal challenge has been filed against the six-day imposition of Section 144 in Lahore. The preventative measures around Minar-e-Pakistan, the planned protest site, include the deployment of containers and a significant police contingent at Greater Iqbal Park. Section 144 and Rangers DeploymentCiting concerns about potential PTI protests and the risk of terrorism, Section 144 has been imposed in four Punjab cities: Lahore, Rawalpindi, Attock, and Sargodha. Rangers have been called in to assist in maintaining order in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Attock. The Punjab Home Department’s order prohibits all political gatherings, sit-ins, rallies, demonstrations, and protests in these cities.

Six companies of Rangers have been requested for Rawalpindi and Attock for October 4 and 5. Ten platoons of Frontier Constabulary have also been recommended for deployment in Attock. Three companies of Rangers have been requested for Lahore on October 5. The Section 144 order will be in effect for three days (October 4-6) in Rawalpindi, Attock, and Sargodha, and for six days (October 3rd-8th) in Lahore. The decision to impose the restrictions was made on the recommendation of the district administrations. A spokesperson for the Home Department stated that in light of security threats, any public gathering could be a soft target for terrorists. The orders were issued to maintain peace, protect lives, and safeguard property. The Home Department has issued notifications regarding the implementation of Section 144 and sent requests to the federal Ministry of Interior for the deployment of Rangers.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan