The Rawalpindi district administration has enforced Section 144 for 15 days ahead of a protest announced by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) outside Adiala Jail.
According to an official notification, Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema imposed Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) across the district from April 6 to April 20, citing concerns over the law and order situation.
The decision was taken after the District Intelligence Committee warned of possible security threats, particularly around sensitive locations, major roads, and important installations. Authorities said there were reports that certain groups were mobilising people to hold large gatherings and protests that could disturb public peace.
Under Section 144, all public meetings, rallies, processions, sit-ins, demonstrations, and gatherings of more than five people have been banned. The order also prohibits carrying weapons, batons, slingshots, ball bearings, petrol bombs, improvised explosive devices, or any other items that could be used for violence.
The display of arms, except by law enforcement agencies, has also been restricted. In addition, the use of loudspeakers, objectionable or hate speech, and pillion riding have been banned during this period.
Security has been tightened across Rawalpindi in view of a possible PTI protest related to a planned meeting with party founder Imran Khan. The party has also announced a protest on April 9, marking four years since it was removed from power through a no-confidence vote.
Imran Khan has been in custody since August 2023 and is currently serving a sentence at Adiala Jail in a £190 million corruption case. He is also facing trials under the Anti-Terrorism Act in connection with the May 9, 2023 protests. PTI leaders have recently raised concerns about his health after a medical report submitted to the Supreme Court stated that vision in his right eye had declined significantly. Government officials, however, say he is receiving proper medical treatment.
