The district administration of Rawalpindi has denied a request of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to hold a political gathering at Liaquat Bagh scheduled for April 9, citing security concerns and prevailing law and order conditions.
According to an official notification issued by the Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi, the request submitted by local leadership of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) was reviewed by the District Intelligence Committee (DIC) after a comprehensive assessment of the current security situation.
The letter stated that, based on feedback from law enforcement agencies, credible security threats to large public gatherings were identified, posing potential risks to both participants and the general public. In light of these concerns, the committee unanimously concluded that the event could not be permitted.
Authorities also noted that Section 144 has already been imposed in the district, restricting public assemblies.
The administration further explained that extensive deployment of police personnel and security resources required for such a large-scale event is currently not feasible due to existing security demands and government austerity measures.
Following the DIC’s unanimous decision and recommendations from law enforcement agencies, the administration formally declined the request to organise the political gathering at Liaquat Bagh.
Section 144 imposed in Rawalpindi for 15 days
In view of the security situation in Islamabad’s twin city, Rawalpindi, the district administration has imposed Section 144 from April 6 to April 20, effectively banning large gatherings for 15 days.
In a notification by the district administration, five or more people assembling will be outrightly banned. Meetings and procession, sit-in, protests, demonstrations, and rallies will also not be permissible during this time.
Officials also added that carrying of dangerous items and display of weapons, petrol bombs, ball bearings and sticks will be prohibited. The hate speech, incitement, double riding on motorcycles, and use of loudspeakers have also been restricted.
It was decided at a District Intelligence Committee meeting that was headed by Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema, on the recommendations of the security agencies. The committee also resolved to strengthen the security of critical installations and other sensitive places, whereas those activities affecting traffic flow will be dealt with firmly.
