Islamabad Administration Warns Against Public Gatherings Under Section 144
ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN — WEB DESK: Islamabad’s district administration has reiterated that restrictions on public gatherings remain in force across the federal capital under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, warning that people violating the orders could face legal action.
In a warning issued on Saturday, October 10, the administration said prohibited assemblies, rallies and demonstrations would not be permitted and urged residents to comply with existing restrictions.
Authorities also reminded the public that the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, 2024, provides separate legal provisions governing public gatherings in the capital.
Public Gatherings and Rallies Restricted
The restrictions prohibit gatherings of five or more people, processions, rallies and demonstrations in public places within Islamabad’s administrative limits, including the Red Zone.
The underlying Section 144 order was issued in September for a two-month period. Saturday’s announcement reiterated the existing restrictions rather than introducing an entirely new two-month ban.
The district administration said enforcement measures were intended to maintain public order and prevent activities that could threaten security.
Violators Warned of Legal Action
Officials warned that anyone participating in activities prohibited by the applicable orders could face action under the law.
The administration specifically highlighted the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, 2024, under which certain violations can carry imprisonment of up to three years.
However, a three-year prison sentence is not an automatic punishment for every breach of Section 144. Any charge or penalty would depend on the relevant legal provision and judicial proceedings.
Residents were advised to avoid unlawful assemblies and follow directions issued by the authorities.
Administration Urges Public Cooperation
The district administration called on citizens to cooperate with police and other security agencies.
Officials said restrictions would be enforced in accordance with the law and urged residents not to participate in activities that could lead to public disorder.
The announcement did not identify any new arrests, specify a fresh curfew or announce a blanket closure of businesses and public transport.
Restrictions Follow Political Protest Tensions
The restrictions were initially imposed in September amid concerns about planned demonstrations in Islamabad.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters subsequently launched a march towards the federal capital demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
The government has defended heightened security measures as necessary for public safety, while opposition protests have continued to raise questions about the exercise of peaceful assembly rights.
Saturday’s warning did not identify a specific new protest as its immediate trigger.
What Residents Should Know
The restrictions apply to prohibited public assemblies and demonstrations rather than automatically banning ordinary travel or all movement within the city.
Residents planning public events should check the latest instructions issued by Islamabad’s district administration and police.
Any changes to the existing restrictions would require further official notification.
The key development is the administration’s renewed warning that Section 144 remains in force and that violations of applicable public-order laws may result in legal proceedings.
