Authorities in Rawalpindi have imposed a 15-day ban on public gatherings under Section 144 of the CrPC, citing security concerns ahead of planned protests by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf near Adiala Jail and elsewhere in the district.
In an order issued on Monday, Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema enforced restrictions from April 6 to April 20, prohibiting rallies, sit-ins, and assemblies of five or more people across the district.
The administration said the decision followed a meeting of the District Intelligence Committee (DIC), which warned of an “imminent threat” to law and order, particularly around sensitive installations, major roads, and key infrastructure. The order noted intelligence reports suggesting that certain groups were mobilising to stage disruptive protests and could potentially target vulnerable locations.
Under the restrictions, authorities have also banned the display of weapons, except by law enforcement, along with hate or provocative speech. The carrying of items such as batons, slingshots, ball bearings, petrol bombs, and improvised explosive devices has been strictly prohibited. Additionally, pillion riding and the use of loudspeakers have been barred during the enforcement period.
The move comes ahead of protests announced by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf outside Adiala Jail, where former prime minister Imran Khan remains incarcerated. The party has been staging regular demonstrations near the facility on court-designated visitation days.
PTI has called for a “peaceful protest” outside the jail on Tuesday, citing restrictions on meetings with its founder. A separate protest is planned for April 9, marking the anniversary of Imran Khan no-confidence removal 2022.
Meanwhile, Sohail Afridi said the April 9 demonstration would be a one-day peaceful protest aimed at highlighting concerns over governance, economic conditions, inflation, and delays in legal proceedings involving Imran Khan. He added that his convoy would depart from Peshawar at 11am, with participants joining en route to Rawalpindi.
Authorities have not indicated any relaxation in restrictions, maintaining that the measures are necessary to ensure public safety and prevent potential unrest.