Punjab imposes Section 144 across province for seven days

RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 1st Mar, 2026) The Punjab government on Sunday imposed Section 144 across the province for seven days in view of possible security threats and concerns over public order, a spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department said.

According to a notification issued by the Home Department, all kinds of public gatherings, rallies and demonstrations have been banned with immediate effect.

The decision was taken in light of intelligence reports suggesting that sensitive gatherings could become targets of terrorist activity. Reports also warned that miscreants might attempt to target religious scholars participating in public events to incite unrest and sectarian violence.

The spokesperson said the preventive measures were adopted to avert sectarian tension and any disruption of law and order.

Under the order, public gatherings of four or more persons have been prohibited across Punjab, and no assembly may be held at public places without prior permission.

Law enforcement personnel performing official duties have been exempted from the ban. Similarly, gatherings related to weddings, funerals and burial rites, as well as meetings of government and semi-government offices and court proceedings, have been exempted.

The notification also imposes a complete ban on display and use of weapons at public places, applicable to both licensed and unlicensed arms.

The Home Department said district administrations and police across the province had been directed to ensure strict implementation of the orders.

The spokesperson reiterated that all necessary steps would be taken to maintain peace and protect the lives and property of citizens.