The district administration of Dera Ismail Khan has imposed Section 144, prohibiting public gatherings, rallies and pillion riding as part of measures to maintain law and order.
The restrictions were imposed through an order issued by Deputy Commissioner Hikmatullah on October 13 and took effect immediately.
Under the order, public gatherings, meetings, processions and rallies that could disturb public order, disrupt traffic or obstruct citizens’ movement have been prohibited.
The administration has also banned the display of weapons and the installation of tents and temporary structures on public roads, according to the notification.
The order stated that the restrictions had been introduced in view of the prevailing law and order situation in the district.
The administration warned that anyone violating the restrictions would face legal action under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code.
The restrictions will remain in force throughout the district until November 11, unless withdrawn or amended earlier by the competent authority.
Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure empowers local authorities to impose restrictions on activities that may threaten public peace, including public gatherings, rallies, processions, sit-ins and the display of weapons.
Section 144 is also in force in several other parts of the country.
On Sunday, the authorities imposed the restriction in Karachi, where it is scheduled to remain effective until October 20. On Saturday, the measure was enforced in Rawalpindi district for 30 days.
Meanwhile, the Punjab Home Department extended Section 144 across the province until October 15, citing serious threats to public peace, tranquillity and the safety of life and property.
