Punjab extends Section 144 across province for eight days

LAHORE: The Punjab government has extended the enforcement of Section 144 across the province for another eight days.

According to a notification issued by the Home Department, all kinds of public gatherings, protests, rallies, sit-ins, and processions have been strictly prohibited during this period. The order also bans the assembly of four or more people in public places.

The use of loudspeakers, except for Azaan (call to prayer) and Friday sermons, has been completely restricted. Additionally, the display of weapons and the publication or distribution of provocative, hate-based, or sectarian material have been banned throughout the province.

The decision was made on the recommendation of the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order in its 39th meeting, aimed at protecting public lives and property amid concerns of terrorism and public unrest.

The ban, however, will not apply to weddings, funerals, or official duties. Authorities have been directed to ensure wide public awareness regarding the extended enforcement of Section 144, which will remain in effect until November 1.

Officials warned that large public gatherings could serve as soft targets for terrorists, and that anti-state elements might exploit protests to incite unrest.

On the other hand, Punjab government has decided to introduce new laws for drone policing and arms regulation across the province as part of an extensive security reform plan.

The decision was made during a high-level meeting on law and order chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, where it was also agreed to reassess and scrutinize all licensed firearms.

Officials briefed the Chief Minister that illegal weapons will be confiscated within 15 days, while federal arms licenses issued in Punjab will also be reviewed. Only police personnel and registered security guards will be permitted to carry firearms, and both the weapon owners and issuing authorities will undergo verification.

It was further decided that private security companies will be formally registered and regulated under new rules, and their security guards will be linked to the Punjab Police Helpline 15 for real-time coordination.

The meeting also approved the launch of a pilot project for drone policing, aimed at ensuring swift, organized, and digital response to crime scenes. Moreover, modern weapon scanners will be installed at 14 major entry and exit points across Punjab to enhance surveillance and prevent arms smuggling.

The Chief Minister was informed that the annual arms license fee will be doubled, and arms smuggling will carry a prison sentence of up to 14 years.