POLITICS & POLICY MAKING
![Section 144 Imposed in Punjab and Islamabad Amid PTI’s Planned Nationwide Protests](https://4thpillarpost.com/uploads/news/250720241652093.jpg)
The Punjab and Islamabad administrations have imposed Section 144 ahead of PTI's nationwide protests scheduled for Friday, July 26. This legal measure aims to prevent public gatherings, citing potential security threats and the need for maintaining public order.
Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure allows district authorities to issue orders in the public interest, including banning activities for a specified period. This step comes as PTI and opposition alliances, including Tehreek Tahaffuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP), prepare for large-scale demonstrations demanding the release of political prisoners, including PTI founder Imran Khan.
PTI leader Asad Qaiser announced that protests would take place across the country to reclaim the political mandate and release all political prisoners. TTAP leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai and Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman have also expressed support for the protests.
Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Omar Ayub urged citizens to participate peacefully, with demands for the release of incarcerated PTI members, restoration of peace, and addressing inflation through fair elections.
The Punjab Home Department's order highlighted the security threats posed by political gatherings, emphasizing the necessity of public safety measures. The order prohibits all forms of political assemblies, rallies, and protests in Punjab from July 26 to 28.
In Islamabad, the district administration and police reinforced the ban on gatherings without prior permission, focusing on maintaining order during Muharram and the protests. The police warned of strict action against any violations of the law.
As PTI prepares for nationwide protests, the imposition of Section 144 underscores the government's focus on public safety amid heightened political tensions.