The enforcement of Section 144 in Islamabad has once again become a significant point of discussion as the federal capital braces for a planned protest by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on December 2. With political tensions increasing and unanswered questions surrounding the condition of jailed PTI founder Imran Khan, the administration is taking strict preventive measures to maintain public order.
Why Section 144 Has Been Imposed
The Islamabad district administration announced that Section 144 in Islamabad is already in effect, restricting all types of public gatherings, rallies, and protests. This step comes ahead of PTI’s scheduled demonstration outside the Islamabad High Court (IHC), planned by the party’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chapter. The protest is intended to raise concerns over the continued denial of meetings with Imran Khan, who has been incarcerated since August 2023.
Section 144 is typically imposed to prevent gatherings that may lead to unrest, road blockages, or security risks. With the current political environment highly sensitive, authorities have deemed it necessary to act preemptively.
Authorities on High Alert
According to the district administration, police and other law enforcement agencies have been placed on high alert. Officials have instructed all departments to coordinate closely to avoid any untoward incident during the days leading up to and following the scheduled protest.
The administration reiterated that any violation of Section 144 in Islamabad would result in immediate legal action. It warned citizens against participating in unlawful activities, emphasizing responsibility and cooperation from the public.
Public Advisory Issued for Residents
In an official advisory, the administration urged residents to stay away from any kind of gathering declared illegal under the existing restrictions. They explained that the purpose of imposing Section 144 in Islamabad is to prevent disruptions to daily life, maintain peace, and protect public property.
The advisory further stated that enforcement teams would remain active across the city. Citizens have been asked to report any suspicious or unlawful activity so the authorities can act promptly. Maintaining law and order, the statement stressed, is a shared responsibility between the state and its people.
Rawalpindi Also Enforces Section 144
Alongside Islamabad, Rawalpindi has also taken precautionary steps. Deputy Commissioner Hasan Waqar Cheema issued a notification announcing the imposition of Section 144 in the city from December 1 to December 3. With both cities enforcing strict measures, the administration hopes to prevent spillover effects that could emerge from the planned political activity.
The Growing Concerns Surrounding Imran Khan’s Condition
As political tensions rise, a more serious matter is unfolding quietly in the background — concerns about Imran Khan’s safety and wellbeing. For more than three weeks, his family has reportedly received no verifiable proof that he is alive and well. Court-ordered weekly visits have not been honored, and there is growing worry about what may be happening behind prison walls.
His son, Kasim Khan, expressed deep concern in a recent interview with Reuters, saying the family fears that authorities may be hiding “something irreversible.” Rumors about possible transfers or changes in Khan’s condition have made the situation even more alarming.
These concerns have fueled PTI’s urgency to push for public protest, even as Section 144 in Islamabad restricts such gatherings.
Attempts to Meet Imran Khan Blocked Repeatedly
The PTI founder has not only been denied meetings with his sons but also with major political figures. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has been prevented from meeting him eight times since assuming office.
On November 27, CM Afridi staged a prolonged 16-hour sit-in outside Adiala Jail after being denied access once again. His repeated attempts and the denial thereof have intensified the political dispute, adding further pressure to the federal and provincial administrations.
Why the Situation Matters
The imposition of Section 144 in Islamabad reflects the gravity of the situation. Political tensions, public emotions, and questions about Imran Khan’s welfare are converging at a critical moment. The government aims to avoid chaos, while PTI seeks answers regarding their leader’s condition and rights.
As December 2 approaches, Islamabad finds itself in a delicate position. The coming days will reveal whether the restrictions succeed in maintaining peace or trigger further political controversy.
The enforcement of Section 144 in Islamabad underscores the seriousness with which authorities view the upcoming political events. With concerns over Imran Khan’s safety and heightened political pressure, the city is preparing for a potentially volatile situation. How both the administration and PTI manage the coming days will significantly shape the unfolding political narrative in Pakistan.
