Authorities in Rawalpindi have enforced Section 144 until April 20 due to concerns regarding a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest outside Adiala jail. The order, issued by Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema, prohibits gatherings, sit-ins, and protests in the area.
The decision was made following intelligence reports indicating a potential threat to security within Rawalpindi district. The reports suggested that certain groups were planning activities that could disrupt law and order, particularly around sensitive locations and critical infrastructure.
To safeguard against possible risks, the ban includes gatherings of five or more people, display of unauthorized arms, and hate speech. Additionally, restrictions have been placed on carrying weapons or items that could be used for violence, as well as on pillion-riding and the use of loudspeakers.
The imposition of Section 144 coincides with PTI’s planned peaceful protest outside Adiala jail and a subsequent protest in Rawalpindi on April 9. PTI has been holding sit-ins at the jail on designated days to meet party leader Imran Khan, who has faced constraints in meeting family members and party officials.
