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Punjab Extends Section 144 to Nov. 15 as Balochistan Tightens Curbs to Nov. 30

Officials cite fresh threat assessments from security and intelligence agencies.

Overview

  • Punjab's order continues a ban on protests, rallies, sit-ins and public assemblies, including gatherings of four or more people, along with prohibitions on displaying weapons and most loudspeaker use.
  • Exceptions in Punjab include funerals, burials, weddings, courts and government personnel on duty, with loudspeakers allowed only for the Azaan and Friday sermon.
  • The Punjab Home Department says the extension follows reports indicating the threat to public peace has not abated, with officials warning large gatherings could be soft targets for militants.
  • Balochistan expanded Section 144 with a provincewide pillion-riding ban through Nov. 30, exempting women and children, and barred face coverings in public, unregistered motorcycles and vehicles with tinted windows.
  • Balochistan also prohibited gatherings of five or more people, sit-ins, rallies and the transport of explosives and sulfuric acid, with enforcement under Section 188 PPC by Police, Levies and Frontier Corps and daily compliance reports from deputy commissioners.