Section 144 imposed in Lahore for one month, reads notification
Punjab government placed ban on debates and sectarian speeches for the duration of 30 days
LAHORE (Dunya News) – Section 144 has been imposed in Lahore for the duration of one month, according to a notification issued by the government of Punjab.
The Punjab government, under PML-N, has placed a ban on sectarian and faith-related debates as well as speeches for 30 days. Additional chief secretary Major (retd) Azam Suleman Khan has issued the notification for sensitive reasons.
The ban will last till November 9. The notification reads that no person will be allowed to exchange views or opinion in public gatherings regarding Khatm-e-Nabuwwat or any other sensitive matter related to religion.
Section 144 will also be applicable on religious scholars and clerics. Such broadcasts, publications and gathering will also stay restricted.
It was warned that legal action will be taken if anyone violates the decision.
What is Section 144?
Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) empowers district administration to issue orders in public interest that may place a ban on an activity for a specific period of time. Such a ban is enforced by the police who register cases under section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code for violations of the ban. Section 188 carries a maximum penalty of six months in prison or fine or both.
