LAHORE – Situation remains tensed in Punjab as the government announced imposed Section 144 in Rawalpindi amid protest call organized by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) scheduled for Saturday, September 28.
The new conditions restriction prohibits all public gatherings and political activities in the region. A notification from the Home Department has called for the deployment of Rangers from the federal government to help maintain order during the anticipated protest.
The district administration sealed off Liaqat Bagh, the venue for the protest, significantly increasing police presence in and around the park. Security forces have reportedly locked the gates of Liaqat Bagh and instructed individuals who were there for walks to vacate the area.
Despite these security measures, Imran Khan’s urged supporters to gather at Liaqat Bagh at 2 PM on Saturday. The party has recently changed its plans from a large rally to a protest, withdrawing its application for a rally after the district administration denied a No Objection Certificate (NOC).
Khan’s party previously filed petition with the Lahore High Court for permission to hold the rally, but this was withdrawn on the instructions of PTI Chairman Imran Khan.
PTI lawyers staged brief protest outside Supreme Court, emphasising the strict security measures in place. Speakers claimed the Supreme Court symbolizes hope, while the government aims to restrict its powers. The focus of this protest was against the government’s proposed “Form 47” and the establishment of additional constitutional courts.
In this regard, PTI leadership in KP also directed activists to gather at 10:00am to participate in the Rawalpindi protest. A meeting at Chief Minister’s House in Peshawar outlined plans for officials to travel to Rawalpindi with supporters.
PTI rally in Lahore set for Saturday amid strict security measures in Punjab
