Lahore Braces for PTI Protest: Preemptive Security Measures in Place
Containers and Police Presence Surround Minar-e-Pakistan
Lahore-In anticipation of a protest by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) scheduled for October 5 in Lahore, authorities are implementing preemptive security measures.
Additionally, Section 144, which prohibits public gatherings, has been enacted in four cities across Punjab, and Rangers have been called in to help maintain order. A legal challenge has been initiated against the six-day enforcement of Section 144 in Lahore.
The security measures at Minar-e-Pakistan, the planned site for the protest, involve the installation of containers and a significant deployment of police at Greater Iqbal Park.
Section 144 and Ranger Deployment
Due to concerns about potential protests by the PTI and the associated risk of terrorism, Section 144 has been imposed in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Attock, and Sargodha. Rangers have been enlisted to support law enforcement in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Attock.
The order from the Punjab Home Department forbids all forms of political gatherings, including sit-ins, rallies, demonstrations, and protests within these cities. Six companies of Rangers have been requested for deployment in Rawalpindi and Attock on October 4 and 5, along with ten platoons of Frontier Constabulary in Attock. Additionally, three companies of Rangers are requested for Lahore on October 5.
The Section 144 order will remain in effect for three days (October 4-6) in Rawalpindi, Attock, and Sargodha, and for six days (October 3-8) in Lahore. The decision to impose these restrictions was based on recommendations from district administrations.
More Read:
Punjab Imposes Section 144 in Lahore Amid Security Concerns
Punjab Government Imposes Section 144 Ahead of PTI Rallies
Punjab Imposes Section 144 in Mianwali Over Security Threats
A spokesperson for the Home Department stated that given the security threats, any public gathering could become a potential target for terrorists. The measures were implemented to ensure peace, protect lives, and secure property. Notifications regarding the enforcement of Section 144 have been issued, and requests for Ranger deployments have been sent to the federal Ministry of Interior.
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