Sindh imposes province-wide ban on protests, rallies for 1 month, citing security concerns
The Sindh government has enacted a month-long ban on protests, rallies, sit-ins, and public gatherings across the province under Section 144, citing security threats and the need to maintain public order, reports 24brussels. The ban, effective from October 12 to November 12, follows a request from the Sindh Inspector General of Police, who expressed concerns regarding potential threats to public safety.
The official notification issued by the Sindh Home Department prohibits assemblies of more than five people throughout the province. The measure aims to “maintain a law and order situation and prevent miscreants from assembling in a manner prejudicial to public safety in the province.”
This decision comes shortly after a similar enforcement in Rawalpindi, where the Punjab Home Department imposed a 14-day ban on public gatherings ahead of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan’s (TLP) Aqsa Million March. Authorities in Punjab cited credible intelligence reports warning of an increased risk of coordinated attacks targeting public gatherings, government facilities, and law enforcement personnel.
With both Sindh and Punjab now enacting restrictions under Section 144, officials aim to prevent potential disruptions and safeguard citizens amid rising security concerns. Concurrently, a month-long Section 144 has been imposed in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan, prohibiting public meetings and rallies. Deputy Commissioner Gilgit Baltistan announced that the ban also includes prohibitions on the display of arms, aerial firing, and pillion riding, although exceptions are made for women, children, and the elderly. This decision follows recent firing incidents in the region, including an attack on Justice Malik Enayat ur Rehman’s vehicle.
