Punjab keeps public gathering ban until November 8.

Lahore – (Special Correspondent / Web Desk) – The Punjab government has extended the execution of Section 144 throughout the state for another week, till November 8, according to a notification issued by the Punjab Home Department.

The extension follows a review of the most recent threat assessments provided by law enforcement and intelligence organizations.

Authorities judged it important to retain limitations in order to prevent potential riots, sectarian tensions, and illegal activities, while also maintaining public safety and the preservation of both public and private property.

Under the order, a ban remains in place on public gatherings, processions, sit-ins, the carrying of weapons, use of loudspeakers, and distribution of provocative material.

It is to be noted that the measure was first imposed on October 8 for ten days and has since been extended three times in light of ongoing security concerns.

Earlier, the federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has unanimously approved declaring Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) a proscribed organization under the Anti-Terrorism Act, according to the official statement issued after the meeting.

The Interior Ministry provided a summary of the Punjab government’s proposal to the cabinet, citing the TLP’s involvement in violent and terrorist actions around the country.  According to the statement, senior Punjab government officials participated in the session via video link.

Pakistan and Afghanistan agree to a fragile week-long ceasefire.

The briefing stated that since its inception in 2016, the TLP has been involved in extensive violent rallies, provocation, and acts of terrorism throughout Pakistan.  The cabinet was informed that the group’s actions had harmed public safety, disrupted order, and resulted in the deaths of security personnel and citizens in previous demonstrations.

The statement recalled that TLP was previously banned in 2021 by the then government, but the ban was lifted six months later on the condition that the group would refrain from violence and unrest. However, the cabinet noted that TLP had violated those assurances, prompting the latest decision.