The Karachi commissioner imposed a five-day ban on protests, sit-ins, rallies and public gatherings across the city under Section 144, citing security concerns.

A notification from the commissioner’s office, issued on Saturday, announced restriction of protests and gatherings of more than five people across Karachi, based on the recommendation of the Additional Inspector General (AIG) of Karachi.

The ban will be in effect from October 13 to 17. According to the notification, the Karachi police chief alerted authorities that “various groups are planning protests, sit-ins and rallies on the same day in the city, which may result in protests.” security risks, public order problems and inconvenience to the public.

Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi, exercising powers delegated by the Sindh Home Ministry, imposed a complete ban on public gatherings within the city limits.

Separately, the Punjab government also imposed restrictions on public gatherings in five districts under Section 144 for three days, citing security concerns.

The affected districts are Dera Ghazi Khan, Layyah, Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur and Kot Addu. The ban, in effect from October 12 to 14, aims to address security risks and maintain public order, according to the state-run APP.

An Interior Ministry spokesperson confirmed that all political events, demonstrations, sit-ins and similar activities are strictly prohibited during this period. The government has highlighted the potential danger posed by public gatherings, which could be targets of terrorist attacks.

The decision followed requests from the respective district administrations and highlighted the need to maintain law and order.

The Punjab Home Department has issued an official notification regarding the restrictions imposed, emphasizing the importance of ensuring public safety and protecting lives and properties during the lockdown.