Ban on pillion riding in Karachi lifted

KARACHI: The Sindh government on Saturday lifted a 10-day ban on motorcycle-pillion riding that was imposed after the countrywide protests erupted against acquittal of Aasia Bibi, who had been on death row for around eight years for blasphemy.   

“This department’s notification dated Oct 31 regarding imposition of ban under section 144 Cr.P.C on following acts/ points for 10 days from Oct 31 is hereby withdrawn,” the notification read.

The ban was lifted in the wake of the end of the countrywide protests following an agreement reached between the federal government and the protesting parties.

On Oct 31, the Sindh government imposed a ban on pillion riding for 10 days in view of the law and order situation emerging in the wake of the Supreme Court verdict in the Aasia Bibi case.

The provincial government had also banned processions and rallies as well as carrying of arms. Under section-144 of the government, a gathering of no more than four people will be allowed.