The Punjab government has announced a comprehensive extension of Section 144 across the province until October 24, implementing a total ban on all forms of public assembly, including protests, rallies, sit-ins, meetings, and large public gatherings.
The order, issued by the Punjab Home Department, strictly prohibits any gathering of four or more individuals in public spaces. Furthermore, the display of weapons and the unauthorized use of loudspeakers have been strictly banned.
In an effort to maintain public peace, the government has also imposed a complete prohibition on inflammatory speeches, hate speech, and the distribution of sectarian literature.
According to a spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department, the extension was enacted based on the recommendations of the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order. The primary objective is to address current security concerns and ensure the safety of human lives and property.
The spokesperson explicitly stated that the measure is a pre-emptive step against potential threats of terrorism, noting that large public gatherings could be exploited as “soft targets” by miscreants.
Exemptions and Public Directives
The order includes specific exemptions to minimize disruption to daily life. The ban will not apply to:
- Wedding ceremonies.
- Funeral and burial processions.
- Government officials performing their duties.
- Court activities.
The use of loudspeakers is exclusively permitted for the Azan (call to prayer) and Friday sermons.
The Home Department has directed the public to fully cooperate by adhering to traffic and security laws, avoiding unnecessary gatherings, and immediately contacting the relevant authorities in the event of an emergency or suspicious activity.
