The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 in Rawalpindi and Murree for one month due to the current law and order situation.
According to the official notification, the restrictions will remain in place from October 10 to November 8.
Public gatherings, rallies, processions, sit-ins and protests have been banned across both districts. Gatherings of more than five people are also prohibited under the order.
The restrictions also ban the use of batons, petrol bombs and weapons. Pillion riding on motorcycles and the use of loudspeakers are also prohibited.
Officials said the decision was made due to security concerns. Strict legal action will be taken against anyone who violates the restrictions.
What is Section 144?
Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) gives the authorities the power to impose restrictions when there is a risk to public safety or a threat of disorder.
The law is used across Pakistan to prevent violence and manage security threats. It can also be used to restrict public gatherings, protests and the carrying of weapons.
The main purpose of these restrictions is to maintain law and order and protect people and public property.
Section 144 imposed in Abbottabad
Before this, Deputy Commissioner Sarmad Saleem Akram imposed Section 144 in Abbottabad ahead of the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) annual examinations and the President’s Parade at Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul.
According to an official notification, restrictions on public gatherings and the sale of materials used for cheating will remain in place from October 7 to November 6, 2026, on examination days.
The use of photocopiers and mobile phones will also be banned within 200 metres of examination centres.
Protests and public gatherings will be prohibited from October 13 to 17. The use of drones and quadcopters, as well as kite-flying, will also be banned during these dates.
