Punjab bans public gatherings until October 5 over terror threat

The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province until October 5, banning gatherings of five or more people at public places, highways and open spaces because of reported terrorist threats to public gatherings. Section 144 allows the administration to prohibit assemblies for a specified period.

The order, reported by UrduPoint and Express News, takes effect on September 23 and lasts 14 days. It prohibits processions, rallies, public meetings, sit-ins, demonstrations and jalsas. Carrying or displaying weapons at public places is also banned, as is inciting people to join illegal gatherings. The restrictions apply to all public places, highways and open spaces.

According to Express News, the provincial home department said the ban was imposed under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure 1898 after law enforcement and intelligence agencies reported immediate threats. The department said terrorist organisations were planning to target public gatherings, and that rallies, processions and sit-ins could become easy targets for attacks. Law enforcement and intelligence agencies had requested immediate protective measures to deal with possible terrorist threats, and the home secretary imposed the ban in view of serious threats to public peace, tranquility and life and property.

The restrictions do not apply to weddings, funeral prayers, burials, mosques and other places of worship. Courts, government institutions and events with official permission are also exempt. On-duty personnel of law enforcement agencies, intelligence agencies and security forces are not covered by the ban.

The home department said protecting public life and property was the government's top priority, and the notification has been issued for maintaining peace and order across Punjab. The order comes after intelligence reports indicated that terrorist organisations planned to target public gatherings, making rallies, processions, sit-ins and demonstrations potential easy targets. The ban is effective from September 23 to October 5, a period of 14 days.