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LAHORE: The Punjab government has imposed a ban on all types of rallies and processions in Lahore, effective immediately, for a period of 7 days. This came just minutes before the PTI was to take out its planned rally from Zaman Park to Data Darbar.
Interestingly, the ban was imposed just minutes after Punjab Home Department issued a letter, urging Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to take extra security measures for its today’s rally.
Also read: Punjab govt urges PTI to tighten security for election rally
A notification issued by Punjab Home Department says “WHEREAS. It has been observed that number of rallies and protests are held therein on daily basis at different places of District Lahore, which not only pose serious security threats but also disrupt traffic and cause inconvenience to public at large. There is also a history of terrorist activities in the rallies/ protests. wherein, a number of police officials and civilians embarrassed shahadat. Hence, in the context of prevailing overall security situation in the wake of recent wave of terrorism & latest threat alerts, it has been necessary to impose section 144 of Cr.P.C, 1898 on holding of all kinds of Assemblies. Gatherings, Sits-in, Rallies, Processions, Demonstrations, Jalsas, Dharnas, Protests and such like other activities across the district Lahore to avert any untoward incident.”
The notification further states that “in view of the facts stated above, it is essential to ensure security of the people and installations / buildings against any potential terrorist or untoward activity, in the larger interest of public safety. security, peace and tranquility.”
As per the notification, the latest ban prohibit all kinds of Assemblies, Gatherings, Sits-in, Rallies, Processions, Demonstrations, Jalsas, Dharnas, Protests and such like other activities within the territorial jurisdiction of District Lahore, and that the ban shall come into force with immediate effect and remain in force for 07 days.
