Section 144 Enforced in Rawalpindi Ahead of PTI Protest on August 5
Rawalpindi authorities impose Section 144 from August 4 to 10, banning public gatherings amid security concerns over the PTI protest rally scheduled for August 5. Police on high alert as crackdown on party workers intensifies.
Section 144 Imposed in Rawalpindi Ahead of PTI August 5 Protest Rally
Rawalpindi, Pakistan — In anticipation of a large-scale protest organized by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the Rawalpindi district administration has imposed Section 144 across the city, banning public gatherings, rallies, and motorcycle pillion riding from August 4 to August 10, 2025.
The restrictions come amid escalating security concerns and reports of increasing crackdowns on PTI workers and leadership across Punjab.
Why Section 144 Has Been Enforced in Rawalpindi
According to an official notification from the Deputy Commissioner’s office, the imposition of Section 144 is a preventive security measure aimed at maintaining law and order. The upcoming PTI protest rally on August 5 is expected to draw significant public attention and potential unrest.
Key restrictions under Section 144 include:
Ban on all political gatherings, protests, and public rallies
Prohibition of motorcycle pillion riding
Ban on use of loudspeakers
Display of arms in public strictly prohibited
PTI Protest Sparks Heightened Security Measures
The planned PTI protest is part of the party’s ongoing efforts to highlight alleged injustices and demand the release of jailed PTI leaders and workers. However, the protest has prompted a city-wide security response.
Rawalpindi Police have been placed on high alert. Orders from City Police Officer (CPO) Khalid Hamdani instructed the Special Branch, local stations, and security checkpoints to maintain full attendance and readiness.
An internal circular from SP Security emphasizes the need for:
24/7 patrol and surveillance
Emergency response preparedness
On-ground verification of personnel presence
Islamabad Also Under Section 144 Restrictions
Echoing Rawalpindi’s strategy, Islamabad district authorities have reiterated that Section 144 remains in effect in the capital as well.
Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon warned that any unauthorized gathering would result in immediate arrest and legal action. “No tolerance will be shown towards those violating the law,” Memon said in a statement to the press.
PTI Leaders Go Underground as Crackdown Intensifies
As the protest date nears, PTI leadership is reportedly under increasing pressure from law enforcement. Reports suggest:
Several key PTI leaders have gone into hiding to avoid arrest
Police are allegedly conducting door-to-door visits demanding written pledges from individuals not to join the protest
Bank accounts of prominent PTI figures have reportedly been frozen, including that of Hafiz Zeeshan Rasheed in Punjab
PTI claims these measures are part of a systematic effort to silence dissent and disrupt lawful political mobilization.
Public Response and Political Tensions
The sudden imposition of Section 144 has drawn mixed reactions from the public. Supporters of PTI accuse the government of stifling democratic rights, while officials maintain that the restrictions are temporary and necessary for public safety.
Political analysts say the move reflects growing unease among authorities over PTI’s attempts to regain momentum through street power, especially after the party’s previous rallies witnessed dwindling participation.
FAQs: Section 144 in Rawalpindi & PTI Protest Explained
What is Section 144 and why is it used?
Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) is a law used to prohibit gatherings of more than four people in a public space, typically to avoid unrest or potential threats to law and order.
How long will Section 144 be enforced in Rawalpindi?
The restriction will remain in effect from August 4 to August 10, 2025.
What is PTI protesting on August 5?
PTI is demanding the release of imprisoned leaders and party workers, and calling attention to what it terms “unjust treatment” by the government and judiciary.
Are there similar restrictions in Islamabad?
Yes, Section 144 is also active in Islamabad, and authorities have warned of strict legal action against violators.
Is it safe to attend or participate in protests?
Authorities strongly advise against participating in unauthorized gatherings. Violators face immediate detention and legal proceedings.
Conclusion: Political Climate Heats Up as August 5 Nears
The enforcement of Section 144 in Rawalpindi and Islamabad signals heightened political tension in Pakistan as PTI braces for its August 5 protest. With law enforcement on high alert and party leaders allegedly in hiding, the situation remains fluid and volatile.
Observers anticipate that how the events unfold in the coming days may significantly influence the broader political narrative heading into the latter half of 2025.
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