Punjab Imposes Section 144 Until October 5 Over Security Threats

The Punjab Home Department has imposed Section 144 across the province from September 23 until October 5, introducing temporary restrictions on public gatherings after authorities cited immediate security concerns. The order prohibits gatherings of five or more people at public places, roads and open spaces throughout Punjab.

Under the notification, rallies, processions, public meetings, demonstrations and sit-ins are prohibited during the enforcement period. Authorities have also banned the carrying or public display of weapons and placed restrictions on activities intended to encourage participation in gatherings considered unlawful under the order.

The Home Department said the restrictions were introduced following information received from law enforcement and intelligence agencies about threats to public safety. According to the notification, intelligence assessments indicated that terrorist organisations could attempt to target crowded gatherings, prompting officials to adopt preventive measures across the province.

Several categories of activities remain exempt. Wedding ceremonies, funeral prayers, burials and activities at mosques and other places of worship are not covered by the general prohibition. Courts, government institutions and events that have received official permission are also exempt, while law enforcement, intelligence and security personnel performing official duties may continue their operations.

The restrictions were imposed under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, after requests from law enforcement agencies for immediate preventive measures. Section 144 allows authorities to temporarily restrict specified activities when officials determine that urgent action is required to prevent threats to public order, safety or property.

The measure comes as Punjab authorities increase security preparations in several districts. The provincial government has separately sought Rangers deployment in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum and Mianwali until October 5, following a request from Punjab Police and approval by the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order. The proposed deployment includes multiple Rangers companies and wings across the four districts.

The heightened security measures are unfolding ahead of planned political mobilisation toward Islamabad, increasing attention on major roads and gathering points across Punjab. Authorities have framed the restrictions primarily as a response to security assessments and potential threats to public gatherings rather than as a permanent limitation on political activity.

Enforcement will remain in effect through October 5 unless authorities revise or withdraw the order earlier. Provincial officials are expected to monitor intelligence assessments and the security environment during the period, while police and other agencies will be responsible for implementing the restrictions and responding to violations under applicable law.