Punjab govt bans gatherings until Sept 17 citing threats of 'possible terrorist activities'

On Sunday, the Punjab government announced a ban on all gatherings until September 17, citing credible reports of potential terrorist activities. This ban, imposed under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), was prompted by intelligence alerts from law enforcement agencies and intelligence agencies. The Punjab government warned that militant and terrorist organizations, along with hostile intelligence agencies, were planning to carry out attacks using suicide bombers, vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices, and targeted killings during large public gatherings.

The administration feared that such events could serve as potential targets for terrorists and create social unrest, posing a significant threat to public peace and the safety of life and property. The ban encompassed processions, assemblies of five or more individuals, and the carrying, displaying, or brandishing of weapons in public places.

However, exemptions were made for marriage ceremonies, funeral prayers, prayers at mosques and other places of worship, courts, and official government events. The government also prohibited inciting others to participate in unlawful assemblies. The Jamaat-i-Islami, which has been protesting the petroleum levy in several locations across the country for nearly a month, has been calling for a march to Islamabad on September 20 if the government fails to lift the levy.