Punjab Information Minister Uzma Bukhari has announced the implementation of Section 144 across the province in response to terrorism threats. Emphasizing the severity of the situation, she stated that strict measures will be taken against those who violate the law.
Bukhari underscored that public safety cannot be compromised in the name of protests and sit-ins. She warned that any breach of Section 144 would be met with stringent action. “We cannot allow the lives of our citizens to be made miserable under the guise of protests,” she said.
She pointed out that the political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which has been actively engaging in street protests since 2014, should refrain from such activities for the next three days. “It’s time for the party that has been on the streets since 2014 to rest at home for three days,” she added, highlighting PTI’s history of street protests and public demonstrations.
Bukhari’s comments come in the wake of a protest call by Jamaat-e-Islami and PTI, which has led to road blockages from Rawalpindi to Islamabad and the suspension of metro services. In light of these developments, the provincial government has imposed a ban on all forms of public gatherings, processions, rallies, sit-ins, and protests under Section 144.
Addressing the ongoing protests, Bukhari criticized PTI’s leadership, particularly targeting their strategies to gain political power through public demonstrations. “The mission of the prisoner sitting in Adiala Jail is to reach power through sit-ins. A two and a half hour hunger strike suits you, and the 3 to 7 PM timing is better for you,” she remarked, in a veiled reference to PTI’s methods of protest.
She further mentioned that PTI still has the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a venue for their protests and sit-ins, hinting at the numerous unresolved issues stemming from a recent tragic incident in Bannu. “There are still many questions from the nation about the tragic incident in Bannu,” she said.
In addition to these measures, the implementation of Section 144 has also affected the legal and political landscape around Adiala Jail. Lawyers and PTI workers who had gathered at Gate No. 5 of the jail have been dispersed. Jail staff confirmed that gatherings in front of the gate are now prohibited, and only those whose identities are verified will be allowed entry into the jail premises.
These steps reflect the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order while addressing the concerns of terrorism. By enforcing Section 144, the Punjab government aims to ensure the safety and security of its citizens, deterring any attempts to disrupt public peace through unauthorized gatherings and protests.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how these measures will impact the political dynamics in the province, particularly with the PTI and its supporters. The government’s stance indicates a zero-tolerance policy towards any activities that threaten the stability and security of the region.
