Rawalpindi authorities have imposed a city-wide ban on public gatherings as the area braces for a major protest planned by supporters of former prime minister Imran Khan. The restrictions, enforced under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (Punjab Amendment) Act, 2024, will remain in effect from December 1 to December 3. The order, issued by Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Dr. Hassan Waqar Cheema, prohibits rallies, sit-ins, demonstrations, processions of five or more people, and any form of political gathering. It also bans the display of weapons, the use of loudspeakers, pillion-riding on motorcycles, and public speeches deemed provocative or capable of inciting unrest.

Officials say the decision follows intelligence reports warning that certain groups were preparing to stage large demonstrations near sensitive locations, raising concerns about potential threats to public safety and the possibility of violent clashes. Security forces have been placed on high alert across the city in response.

The planned protest comes amid heightened tensions surrounding Imran Khan’s imprisonment and growing speculation about his health. His party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has demanded clarity and access to the former premier, fuelling calls for mass mobilisation in Rawalpindi.

Despite the ban, some PTI supporters have indicated they may attempt to gather outside key sites, including the jail where Khan is being held, prompting warnings of a crackdown from authorities. The situation has created a tense environment across the city, with checkpoints, patrols and surveillance ramped up ahead of the anticipated demonstrations. As the deadline approaches, Rawalpindi remains on edge, reflecting the deepening political polarisation and volatility surrounding Imran Khan’s incarceration. The government’s pre-emptive move to shut down protests underscores the sensitivity of the moment and the fear of unrest spilling into the streets.

This Image is taken from NDTV.