To prevent anticipated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protests, Punjab police have ramped up security measures, sealing nine locations in Islamabad and 25 in Rawalpindi for Saturday.
The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 in Rawalpindi for two days, banning public gatherings ahead of a PTI rally planned at Liaquat Bagh. This law prohibits the assembly of four or more people to maintain order.
A notification from the Punjab Home Department, dated September 27, cited concerns over potential anti-state activities, prompting the imposition of Section 144 across Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Chakwal, and Attock. The ban extends to all rallies, protests, and carrying weapons.
Over 4,000 officers equipped with anti-riot gear will be deployed in Rawalpindi, with checkpoints manned by DSPs and SHOs, and supported by Elite Force units. Senior police officials will be active in Islamabad, and all police leaves have been cancelled to ensure full force presence.
PTI Chairman Imran Khan later announced the cancellation of the planned rally, citing concerns over government restrictions, opting instead for smaller demonstrations, including a protest by the party’s lawyers outside the Supreme Court.
