Several cities in Pakistan have imposed Section 144 following Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) call for protests. On Tuesday (2 December) morning, the local administration enacted Section 144 to prevent demonstrations, banning all forms of public gatherings. Shortly afterwards, Islamabad also enforced Section 144.
The Minister of State for Interior stated that the restrictions in Islamabad and Rawalpindi were implemented to ensure public security and would be strictly followed.
He said attempts had been made to put pressure on the prison authorities, which he deemed unacceptable. He stressed that matters relating to prison visitation fall solely under the jurisdiction of the prison administration and should not be politicised.
Commenting on the visa matter involving Imran Khan’s two sons, Talal Chaudhry said that once the required documents are submitted, visas would be issued within 24 hours, with only a tracking number needed — not emotional appeals.
Discussing the counter-terrorism situation, he noted that terrorists were using social media applications and VPNs to hide their identities. The Ministry of Interior, he said, is working with the PTA to tackle this challenge.
Ahead of today’s demonstration, the Islamabad administration again reminded the public that Section 144 remains active in the city, under which gatherings, rallies and protests are prohibited. It warned that immediate action would be taken against violations, with all security forces kept on high alert.
In Rawalpindi, Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema imposed Section 144 from 1 to 3 December.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Interior warned against using KP government resources for political purposes, stating that legal action would follow any such misuse. He expressed hope that the KP Chief Minister would refrain from using public assets for political activities. Talal also alleged that KP police personnel were being brought to Islamabad to participate in political programmes, adding that any government employee involved would face criminal charges.
His statements were made in relation to PTI’s scheduled protest today. The party has urged supporters to stage demonstrations outside the Islamabad High Court and Adiala Jail due to restricted access to Imran Khan.
Glive24/SS