Why is Rawalpindi on the edge and pillion riding banned across district?
Rawalpindi is tense over Imran Khan death rumours and PTI's planned protests demanding access to him. Authorities enforced Section 144, banning all public gatherings and weapon display to prevent unrest. Heavy police deployment and travel restrictions are in place. Intelligence warns of groups mobilising to disturb law and order, potentially targeting sensitive sites, as PTI threatens escalated action if access is denied.
New Delhi: The streets of Rawalpindi are tense as rumours around the death of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan continue to swirl and concerns over unrest take root. Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced planned protests, raising their pitch for access to him.
The government has enforced Section 144 in the Pakistani city due to fears of growing tensions and considering the volatile situation. All public gatherings have been prohibited.
There is heavy police deployment across the district, and residents have been urged to avoid non-essential travel.
ALSO READ: ‘Imran Khan alive, under pressure’: Pakistani lawmaker refutes ex-PM ‘s death rumours
According to the order, which bears the sign of the office of the Deputy Commissioner, Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema, Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (Punjab Amendment) Act, 2024, will be in place for three days -- from December 1 to 3.
Which activities have been banned?
During this time, following the order, a number of activities have been banned. These include all kinds of assemblies, gatherings, processions, sit-ins, rallies, demonstrations, dharnas, jalsas, protests and similar gathering of five or more people. The carrying of weapons, spikes, loaded batons, slingshots, ball bearings, petrol bombs, improvised explosives, or any other items that could be used to provoke violence is also prohibited. There's complete ban on display of arms (other than carried by LEAs) and objectionable or hate speeches. Pillion riding and use of loudspeakers are also prohibited. Any attempt to remove police barriers or obstructions set up to manage crowds or traffic will be deemed as a violation of the order.
What does the order say?
The order sounds a warning that there is an "imminent threat within the limits of District Rawalpindi" and the curbs are being imposed to ensure "public safety, security, peace, and tranquillity".
The order says: "The District Intelligence Committee (DIC) has reported specific intelligence suggesting that certain groups and elements are actively mobilising with intentions to disturb the law and order situation through large gatherings, protests, and disruptive assemblies. The forum further indicates that these elements may target soft locations and mobilise individuals with the potential to engage in violent actions near key installations, and other sensitive sites, thereby endangering the public peace and tranquillity."
ALSO READ: PTI supporters protest outside Adiala jail as speculation over Imran Khan continues
What is PTI demanding?
Khan has been held in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi. His family claims that they have not been permitted to meet him for over a month and insist that authorities give proof that he is alive and safe. PTI leaders have cautioned that the party’s protest will intensify if the government continues to withhold access to the former prime minister.
ALSO READ:
Pakistan Supreme Court grants bail to Imran Khan in May 9 violence case