On May 21, 2025, the district administration of Naushehra Feroze imposed Section 144 for 30 days in response to deteriorating law and order in Moro, sparked by violent protests against a controversial canal project on the Indus River. The measure bans gatherings, processions, demonstrations, and carrying firearms or other weapons, aiming to restore peace in the region.
The unrest began on May 20, 2025, when nationalist groups protested the canal project in Moro, Naushehra Feroze. The demonstration turned violent, with protestors setting fire to the residence of Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar, burning containers on the National Highway, and looting fertiliser bags from a trailer. Clashes with law enforcement, including attacks on Highway Security Organisation (HSO) personnel, disrupted traffic and heightened tensions, prompting the imposition of Section 144.
The decision to enforce Section 144, under the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), was based on recommendations from Deputy Commissioner Arslan Salim and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sanghar Malik, with approval from Commissioner Moro and Nadim Abro. As stated in the district administration’s notification, the measure addresses the “prevailing situation” of unrest. Section 144 authorises magistrates to prohibit assemblies of four or more people to prevent public disturbances or threats to safety.
Section 144 imposed in Naushehra Feroze
More details: https://t.co/R7OzV10Z2w#ARYNews pic.twitter.com/XzqsB8K8PI
— ARY NEWS (@ARYNEWSOFFICIAL) May 21, 2025Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar condemned the arson at his residence and ordered a detailed report from SSP Naushehra Feroze. He vowed “iron-fisted action” against those challenging the rule of law and emphasising the government’s commitment to restoring order.
The violence caused significant disruption, including a blocked National Highway, affecting local communities and travellers. Police and other law enforcement agencies are investigating the incident, focusing on identifying the perpetrators and assessing the extent of the damage. The government is also exploring measures to address the underlying concerns about the canal project while ensuring public safety.
نوشہروفیروز میں 30 دن کیلئے دفعہ 144 نافذ کردی گئی
مزید جانیے : https://t.co/shW4nDthEx pic.twitter.com/QgG1Gd7ad1
— Dunya News (@DunyaNews) May 21, 2025Section 144 is frequently used in Pakistan to maintain law and order during periods of unrest, such as protests or elections. For example, Karachi imposed Section 144 on December 31, 2024, to prevent aerial firing and fireworks during New Year’s celebrations, demonstrating its application in managing public safety risks. The measure in Naushehra Feroze aligns with similar efforts to curb violence and protect citizens.
