KARACHI: The Sindh Home Department has imposed Section 144 across the province for one month to maintain public order and prevent any unrest following the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP)’s ongoing march toward Islamabad.
According to a notification issued on Sunday, the government stated that the restrictions were being enforced “in the interest of public and peace” to preempt any law and order situation. The order bans all kinds of protests, demonstrations, sit-ins, rallies, and assemblies of more than five persons throughout Sindh.
The notification said the provincial government was “satisfied that in order to maintain law and order and to prevent miscreants from assembly in a manner prejudicial to public safety, it is necessary to take immediate measures.” The order will remain in effect for one month from its issuance date.
Under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, district administrations are empowered to prohibit the assembly of four or more persons in an area for a limited period. Violations of this restriction will be prosecuted under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code, which deals with disobedience to orders issued by public authorities.
Police stations across Sindh have been directed to take immediate action against anyone found violating the ban, with the provincial government emphasizing that no exceptions would be made.
The move comes in response to escalating tensions after the TLP began its march from Lahore toward Islamabad to express solidarity with Palestinians. Clashes erupted between police and TLP supporters on Friday near the party’s headquarters in Lahore, prompting authorities to erect barricades and containers in an attempt to contain the procession.
Law enforcement agencies used tear gas and other crowd-control measures to disperse the demonstrators, but the group has continued its advance and is currently encamped in Muridke.
Officials said the decision to impose Section 144 was aimed at ensuring that similar gatherings or demonstrations do not spill over into Sindh’s urban centers, particularly Karachi and Hyderabad, where large processions could disrupt peace and normal life.
The provincial government has also instructed local administrations to remain on high alert and coordinate with law enforcement agencies to monitor public spaces, mosques, and highways.
Authorities have urged citizens to comply with the order, warning that any attempt to hold public gatherings or stage protests would be treated as a violation of law and dealt with strictly.
Security officials said additional police and Rangers personnel have been deployed in sensitive districts, with checkpoints and mobile units established to monitor any suspicious activity.
The imposition of Section 144 across Sindh follows similar precautionary measures taken in Punjab, where clashes between protesters and law enforcement prompted a heavy security presence and temporary road closures.
Observers note that the timing of the provincial government’s move underscores concerns that the TLP’s march could inflame tensions or inspire similar demonstrations in other regions, particularly as the group’s rhetoric grows increasingly charged.
Officials said the government remains committed to protecting the public’s right to peace and security, adding that the restrictions are preventive rather than punitive in nature. The ban on public gatherings is expected to be reviewed after one month, depending on the security situation in the province.
