As the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) announced a protest at Liaquat Bagh for today (Saturday), police have responded by sealing off the venue in Rawalpindi. The Metro bus service is suspended, and the Islamabad Expressway has been blocked with containers, with police present at Faizabad.
Key Measures Taken:
- Heavy Police Deployment: A significant police presence has been established at all entry points to Rawalpindi, with barricades erected to control access. The district administration has requested four companies of Rangers for additional support.
- PTI’s Response: PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram stated that regardless of the permission status for the rally at Liaquat Bagh, the protest would proceed as planned. The PTI leadership has instructed its supporters to gather at the venue by 2 PM.
- High-profile Participation: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur is set to lead the protest, with PTI leaders arriving in caravans.
Read More: Punjab Enforces Section 144 in Rawalpindi Before PTI Protest
Additional Restrictions:
- Mobile Services: Reports indicate that mobile services will be suspended throughout Rawalpindi today.
- Highway Closures: Motorways M1 and M2 will be closed, along with highways from Chakri, Bahtar, Taxila, and AWT.
- Implementation of Section 144: The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 in the Rawalpindi division for two days, banning all political gatherings, sit-ins, and protests to maintain order and safety.
- This ban also extends to Attock, Jhelum, and Chakwal districts within the Rawalpindi division.
The imposition of Section 144 is a precautionary measure aimed at preventing potential unrest and ensuring the safety of citizens amidst fears of possible violence from armed groups entering Rawalpindi. The situation is being closely monitored by authorities as the protest unfolds.
