The Punjab government has implemented Section 144 across the province, banning all protests, rallies, and public gatherings from Friday, October 18, to Saturday, October 19.
This measure aims to maintain law and order and safeguard lives and property due to heightened security concerns.
The enforcement follows the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) call for a nationwide protest scheduled for October 18, where supporters are set to voice their opposition to recent constitutional amendments and the incarceration of their founding chairman, Imran Khan.
Read: PTI Announces Nationwide Protests Against Proposed 26th Constitutional Amendments
The PTI political committee convened on Wednesday and advocated peaceful demonstrations across district headquarters after Friday prayers. They issued a statement condemning the treatment of Imran Khan, currently held in Adiala Jail, and called for restoring his fundamental rights, including access to family, lawyers, and party leaders.
The committee also appealed to all segments of society that respect constitutional supremacy to join the protests peacefully. They emphasized their commitment to opposing governmental changes to the Constitution and demanded the release of Khan’s sisters, Aleema Khan and Uzma Khan, as well as other detained party members.
The Punjab government described the activation of Section 144 as a precaution to ensure public safety and prevent potential disturbances.
In addition, the Punjab government has declared Friday, October 18, a public holiday throughout the province. All public and private entities, including schools and colleges, will close for the day.
The official notification specifies that the holiday extends to all government and private educational institutions, and universities across the province will also shut down.
