Section 144 Imposed in Islamabad Following Rawalpindi

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) announced protest has prompted the imposition of Section 144 in several cities across the country. On Tuesday (2 December) morning, the local administration enforced Section 144 to prevent demonstrations, banning all types of gatherings. Subsequently, Section 144 was also imposed in Islamabad.

The Minister of State for Interior stated that the restrictions have been enforced in Islamabad and Rawalpindi in the interest of public safety and will be implemented strictly.

He noted that various attempts have been observed to exert pressure on prison authorities, which he described as unacceptable. Matters related to prison visitation fall entirely under the responsibility of the prison administration and are not political issues.

Regarding the visa issue concerning Imran Khan’s two sons, Talal Chaudhry said visas would be issued within 24 hours upon submission of the necessary documents, requiring only the provision of a tracking number rather than appeals for sympathy.

Speaking on the counter-terrorism situation, he said terrorists are using social media apps and VPNs to conceal their identities. To address this challenge, the Ministry of Interior is working with PTA.

Ahead of today’s protest, the Islamabad administration reiterated that Section 144 remains in force in the city, prohibiting any gatherings, rallies or demonstrations. Authorities have warned that immediate action will be taken against any violations, and all security forces, including the police, have been placed on alert.

Rawalpindi’s Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema has also imposed Section 144 there from 1 to 3 December.

Meanwhile, warning against the political use of KP government resources, the Minister of State for Interior said legal action would be taken if such incidents occur. He expressed hope that the KP Chief Minister would not use government assets for political activities. Talal further alleged that KP police personnel were being brought to Islamabad to take part in political programmes, adding that any government employee involved would face criminal charges.

His remarks came in the context of PTI’s announced protest today. The party has called for demonstrations outside the Islamabad High Court and Adiala Jail due to restrictions on Imran Khan’s visitation privileges.

Khaborwala/SS