The Punjab government has banned gatherings across the province until September 17, citing multiple threat alerts regarding possible terrorist activities. The Home Department issued a notification on Sunday imposing the restriction under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), acting on what it described as credible and imminent threats to public peace and safety.
According to the notification, law enforcement agencies and intelligence agencies have received credible reports mentioning a serious and imminent threat to public peace, tranquillity, and the safety of life and property across Punjab by militant and terrorist organisations as well as hostile intelligence agencies.
The notification stated that multiple threat alerts had been received by intelligence agencies regarding possible terrorist activities being planned by such hostile agencies by employing suicide bombers, vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs), and targeted killings during large public gatherings across Punjab. The stated aim of such attacks would be to create mayhem, social unrest, and disrupt public peace.
Authorities contended that assemblies of people and demonstrations may present potential targets for such terrorist attacks. The department added there was a strong apprehension that certain elements may engage in activities, gatherings, or demonstrations that are likely to cause assemblies of persons.
The Home Department said the Punjab police chief, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), the Special Branch of Punjab Police, and multiple district administrations had requested immediate preventive measures to address these potential threats. Subsequently, the ban on gatherings was imposed from September 13 to September 17.
The restrictions cover processions or assemblies of five or more people at public places, roads, highways, and open spaces. The ban will not apply to marriage ceremonies, funeral prayers, prayers at mosques and other places of worship, courts, or official gatherings.
The measure reflects heightened security concerns across Punjab during the specified period, with authorities aiming to prevent any untoward incidents that could threaten public safety. The ban is set to remain in force until Thursday, September 17.
Source: Dawn News