Pakistan’s Islamabad administration has imposed Section 144 across the federal capital for two months, restricting public gatherings, rallies, processions and demonstrations ahead of a planned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) march on September 27 seeking the release of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan. The order covers public places across Islamabad, including the high-security Red Zone.
The restrictions prohibit gatherings of five or more people and allow authorities to take legal action against violations. Officials cited concerns over public order, security and the possibility of disruption arising from planned demonstrations.
The PTI has announced the September 27 march as part of its campaign for Khan’s release and has also raised issues including constitutional supremacy and the rule of law. Khan remains incarcerated at Adiala jail in Rawalpindi.
Security preparations have also intensified in neighbouring areas. Section 144 has separately been imposed across Punjab for 13 days, while the provincial government has requested Rangers deployment in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum and Mianwali during the period surrounding the planned protest.
The Islamabad High Court recently ruled that political protests cannot obstruct citizens’ fundamental rights, including free movement and access to essential services. The court also directed authorities to prevent the use of government resources to facilitate marches towards Islamabad.
The latest restrictions come as federal authorities prepare for the planned demonstration, with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi saying the government would enforce the court’s directions and warning against the march.
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