Punjab extends section 144 across province for 7 days

LAHORE: The Punjab government on Saturday extended the enforcement of Section 144 across the province for another seven days.

According to a notification issued by the Secretary of the Home Department, a meeting of the Cabinet’s Standing Committee on Law and Order reviewed the latest threat assessments provided by law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

During the meeting, officials briefed that the threat to public peace, law and order, and general security had not subsided.

The committee deemed it necessary to continue restrictions to prevent any potential disturbances, sectarian strife, or unlawful activities, and to ensure the safety of citizens and protection of public and private property.

In light of the recommendations, the Home Department extended the validity of Section 144 for an additional seven days.

Under the restrictions, a ban has been imposed on public gatherings, processions, sit-ins, carrying of arms, use of loudspeakers, and distribution of provocative materials.

Earlier, Punjab moved the federal government to ban Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), confirmed provincial minister Azma Bukhari on Friday.

Addressing a press conference here today, Punjab Information Minister announced that the Punjab cabinet has approved a ban on Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), and a summary has been sent to the federal government for final approval.

Bukhari stated that during TLP’s so-called “peaceful protests”, 202 police personnel were seriously injured, and 97 police vehicles were completely destroyed.

She said that the Punjab government’s decision is not against any religious party, belief, or group, but is aimed solely at curbing extremist elements responsible for violence and destruction.

“No action has been taken against any religious organization, mosque, or madrassa,” Azma bukhari added, clarifying that the measures are strictly against those spreading chaos and extremism in the name of religion.