The Punjab government has enforced Section 144 across the province, prohibiting all public gatherings, rallies, processions, protests, and sit-ins for three days.
A notification issued by the Punjab Home Department confirmed the ban’s enforcement from November 23 to November 25. The ban aims to maintain peace, protect lives, and safeguard property amid security concerns.
Officials indicated that public gatherings could become soft targets for terrorists or be exploited for anti-state activities.
Meanwhile, PTI Chairman Imran Khan declared that his party’s planned protest march to Islamabad on November 24 would proceed despite the restrictions.
Speaking from Adiala Jail, where he remains incarcerated despite being granted bail, Khan criticized the government’s lack of seriousness in negotiations and claimed efforts were being made to delay the protests.
He emphasized that protests and talks could continue simultaneously but demanded the release of himself and other detained party members as a goodwill gesture.
Khan accused the authorities of abusing power, filing multiple cases against him, and disregarding legal processes.
He urged lawyers, activists, and citizens to participate in the November 24 demonstrations, including those abroad, as a stand for democratic freedoms. Negotiations, he stated, would only move forward if the government showed sincerity.
PTI leader Asad Qaiser also confirmed ongoing talks between the government and PTI representatives, led by Ali Amin Gandapur, on Khan’s instructions. Qaiser noted that the success of these discussions depended on the government’s willingness to address the PTI’s demands, including releasing imprisoned members.
