MNN (Web-Desk); In response to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)’s nationwide protest call for August 5, the Rawalpindi administration has imposed a one-week ban on public assemblies and gatherings, citing an “imminent threat” to peace and security. The ban, enforced under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, will remain in place from August 4 to August 10.
Imran Khan, currently imprisoned at Adiala Jail since August 2023 in a £190 million corruption case and facing multiple charges under the Anti-Terrorism Act related to the May 9 unrest, has called for a nationwide protest campaign. The former prime minister declared that the movement would peak on August 5, marking two years of his legal and political troubles. However, Imran also criticized the lack of momentum behind the campaign, urging PTI members to set aside their differences.
PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja clarified that no centralized gathering is planned; instead, protests would be held at various locations nationwide.
An official order from Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema said the District Intelligence Committee had warned of a credible threat to peace within the city, particularly near sensitive installations and major roads. Intelligence reports suggested that some groups were mobilising to disturb public order through violent demonstrations.
To mitigate risks, the administration banned:
- Gatherings of five or more people
- Weapons, batons, and objects like slingshots and petrol bombs
- Display of arms and inflammatory speeches
- Attempts to bypass police restrictions on assemblies or traffic
- Pillion riding
- Loudspeaker use
Meanwhile, the Adiala Jail superintendent has formally requested additional security, warning of a planned PTI protest outside the jail, particularly involving Imran’s family members. The jail authorities urged Rawalpindi police to deploy extra personnel, barricades, and surveillance to prevent any security breach.
In Lahore, PTI has approached the High Court seeking permission for a public rally at Minar-e-Pakistan on August 5, while a request has also been submitted to Islamabad authorities for a workers’ convention at F-9 Park.
In anticipation of unrest, Islamabad’s police have ramped up preparations. Over 1,000 officers from the Anti-Riot Unit are undergoing physical training and riot control refresher courses. They are also receiving hands-on training with shields and anti-riot kits, crowd control tactics, and interception techniques.
Police intelligence units have intensified surveillance on PTI leadership and activists, monitoring hotels and accommodations for unusual gatherings. Updated lists of party officials are being compiled as part of preventive efforts to curb any unlawful activity during the upcoming demonstrations.
