Punjab Imposes Section 144 Ahead of PTI Protest in Islamabad

The Punjab government has invoked Section 144 across the province ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest planned for November 24 in Islamabad.

According to a notification issued by the Punjab Home Department, the ban on public gatherings and rallies will remain in effect from Saturday, November 23, to Monday, November 25. This measure has been taken to maintain law and order and address potential security threats, including terrorism.

Under Section 144, gatherings of five or more people are prohibited, and violators may face legal action. The administration has been instructed to ensure strict enforcement of the order across Punjab.

The development comes in response to PTI founder Imran Khan’s call for nationwide protests on November 24. Imran Khan, currently incarcerated, has been rallying his supporters for mass demonstrations against the government.

In a related move, PTI has set forth conditions for withdrawing its protest call. The party has demanded immediate relief for Imran Khan, including the dismissal of what it terms “fabricated” cases against him and his transfer to Peshawar Jail if delays occur in his release. PTI also called for the immediate release of other party leaders detained in various jails.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur emphasized that negotiations regarding the November 24 protest will only begin once Imran Khan is released.

The situation remains tense as both the government and PTI brace for potential clashes in the coming days.