K-P Police warns against unlawful gatherings as governor’s rule looms

The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa police have issued strict warnings to citizens against unlawful gatherings, ahead of the potential imposition of governor's rule in the province. This comes amid a heightened dispute between the federal government and the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa administration regarding terrorism and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's march to Islamabad.

The police have provided detailed operational guidelines for addressing riots and protests, emphasizing that any damage to government establishments or property during demonstrations will not be tolerated. Participants in unlawful gatherings, acts of violence, provocation, or disruption of public order, attacks on security forces or property, or endangering citizens' lives and property will face severe legal consequences.

The police are also urged to safeguard police stations, government buildings, banks, petrol pumps, commercial areas, and main roads. To assist in legal proceedings, all protests and related activities will be recorded via video. Coordination with district administrations and other relevant institutions will be ensured to manage protest situations effectively.

The federal government is contemplating constitutional measures, such as the governor's rule or an emergency, to address the ongoing security concerns in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Recent consultations between President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif discussed the province's deteriorating law and order situation. Additionally, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman to address political matters.

Governor Faisal Karim Kundi and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi briefed President Zardari on the overall security scenario, particularly the worsening law and order conditions in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. A federal cabinet meeting is scheduled for Sunday at 9:30am, where the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa situation and the possible constitutional options will be deliberated upon.