Section 144 Imposed in Karachi Until October 20
Local authorities in Karachi, Pakistan, have imposed Section 144 until October 20 to reduce public inconvenience and prevent a deterioration in the law-and-order situation. Karachi Commissioner Syed Hasan Naqvi announced the decision in a notification issued on Monday (October 12).
According to a report by Dawn, protests, demonstrations, sit-ins and rallies on the city’s major roads, intersections and squares have been causing severe traffic congestion. The notification also cited security concerns and disruptions to the movement of emergency vehicles and access to hospitals.
Under the restrictions, protests, sit-ins, rallies, processions and public gatherings involving more than five people have been banned in various areas of Karachi Division. The restrictions will remain in effect from October 11 to October 20.
The administration said the measures were taken to maintain public peace, ensure the safety of citizens and their property, and keep emergency services running smoothly. Legal action may be taken against those who violate the restrictions.
The restrictions in Karachi come amid political tensions in Pakistan. The recent imposition of a state of emergency and governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has further heightened the country’s political tensions. Former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has also been in prison for an extended period.
Source: Dawn
