Islamabad Imposes Section 144 Ahead of PTI Protests

The Islamabad administration has imposed Section 144 for two months, effective November 18, in anticipation of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party’s planned protests on November 24, Dawn reported yesterday.

This legal measure restricts gatherings of four or more people to maintain public peace, following recent arrests of PTI leaders for violating similar regulations.

PTI founder Imran Khan has called for nationwide protests, denouncing what he terms a “stolen mandate” and urging participation from the legal community and civil society. The administration justified the ban, citing potential disruptions and risks to public safety from planned assemblies.

Additionally, the order prohibits the use of loudspeakers for sectarian speeches, the display of firearms, and the distribution of pamphlets. PTI leaders have criticized the ban as unjust, asserting it undermines their right to peaceful protest. The situation continues to develop as both sides prepare for the upcoming demonstrations