Rawalpindi DC implements Section 144 amid reports of unrest

The Deputy Commissioner of Rawalpindi, Hassan Waqar Cheema, has imposed Section 144 in the district, citing intelligence reports of potential unrest.

According to a report by ARY News on Thursday, the decision was made during a district intelligence committee meeting chaired by Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema. The committee reviewed evidence of unrest near Adiala Jail and other areas of Rawalpindi, prompting the enforcement of Section 144, effective until November 26.

The notification bans public gatherings, rallies, and assemblies of more than four people in light of concerns over unrest, extremism, and terrorism. Meanwhile, PTI founder Imran Khan, who is currently imprisoned, has called for nationwide protests on November 24.

In a related development, PTI has outlined conditions for withdrawing its protest call. According to sources, the party demanded immediate relief for Imran Khan, including the dismissal of what it called “fabricated” cases and his prompt release. If legal delays occur, PTI requested that Khan be transferred to Peshawar Jail.

Additionally, PTI has called for the release of other detained party leaders. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur stated that negotiations on the protest would only begin after Imran Khan’s release.