Rawalpindi On Alert Ahead Of PTI’s Mega Protest; Gatherings Banned As Section 144 Imposed

Last Updated:December 02, 2025, 08:43 IST

Rawalpindi has been placed under strict security restrictions as authorities impose Section 144 ahead of a planned mega protest by PTI supporters.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party supporters carry a poster of their leader and former Prime Minister Imran Khan. (AFP)

Authorities in Rawalpindi have enforced Section 144 for three days as tensions rise over the rumours regarding former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s health and growing fears of public unrest. The order, issued by the office of Deputy Commissioner Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema, bans all forms of public gatherings from 1 to 3 December, reports Pakistani newspaper, Dawn.

Ban on gatherings

The restrictions come at a time when supporters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) are mobilising to demand access to Khan, who has been imprisoned since last year. PTI had planned demonstrations in the garrison city, prompting concerns that the situation could escalate amid circulating allegations about Khan’s wellbeing.

Under the notification, all assemblies of five or more people are prohibited. This includes public meetings, rallies, processions, sit-ins, dharnas, jalsas and any similar form of group activity. Authorities say the temporary ban is necessary to prevent any disturbance to public order as the political climate becomes increasingly charged.

Restrictions on weapons, movement and loudspeakers

The order also places stringent limits on movement and the carrying of potential weapons. Items such as batons, spikes, sling shots, ball bearings, petrol bombs and improvised explosives are banned, alongside the display of firearms by anyone other than law enforcement personnel.

Pillion riding has been prohibited, and the use of loudspeakers is barred throughout the district. Any attempt to remove police barriers or obstructions placed to regulate crowds or traffic will be treated as a violation of the order.

The administration has framed these measures as essential steps to prevent the possibility of coordinated violence. “There exists an imminent threat within the limits of District Rawalpindi," the order states, adding that these restrictions aim to uphold public safety, security, peace, and tranquillity.

Intelligence warnings

The District Intelligence Committee (DIC) has reportedly provided specific intelligence indicating that certain groups are attempting to mobilise large gatherings with the potential to turn disruptive. According to the order, these elements may target “soft locations" or stage actions near key installations and other sensitive points across the district.

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