Islamabad, September 24: Pakistani authorities have imposed a two-month ban on public gatherings, rallies and demonstrations in Islamabad ahead of a planned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) march scheduled for September 27.
The Islamabad administration has enforced Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, prohibiting gatherings of five or more people, processions, rallies and demonstrations across the federal capital, including the high-security Red Zone. The order, issued by the Additional District Magistrate, will remain in force for two months.
The restrictions come as PTI prepares for a long march to Islamabad seeking the release of party founder and jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The party has also said its mobilisation is aimed at highlighting the supremacy of the Constitution and the rule of law.
Security measures have also been stepped up in Islamabad and neighbouring areas. The Punjab government has requested the deployment of Pakistan Rangers in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum and Mianwali from September 22 to October 5 to assist police in maintaining law and order.
Punjab authorities have separately imposed Section 144 across the province for 13 days. They have also requested restrictions on mobile and internet services at specific locations in Rawalpindi and Attock on September 27 amid preparations for the planned protest.
The Islamabad administration has warned that violations of the restrictions could result in legal action. The ban also applies under the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, 2024.
The Islamabad High Court has also ruled in a related case that political parties cannot occupy public roads or disrupt the movement of citizens during political protests.
Meanwhile, the Kissan Ittehad, a farmers' group, has also announced a march towards Islamabad over demands including relief from rising agricultural input costs.
Authorities have intensified security preparations in the capital and surrounding districts ahead of the planned September 27 demonstrations.
