The Punjab government has imposed a ban on all public gatherings and closed all schools and colleges across the province in response to growing protests. The decision comes as the province faces two major challenges: the nationwide protests called by PTI and a separate student protest in Lahore. The PTI protests are set to take place today, with the party demanding changes to the proposed constitutional amendments and expressing opposition to the continued imprisonment of Imran Khan, the party’s founder. Meanwhile, student protests in Lahore have been growing after reports of the alleged rape of a female student. These student demonstrations have turned violent over the past few days, with clashes between protesters and the police.
To maintain peace and order, the Punjab Home Department issued a notification stating that all forms of protests, rallies, and public events have been banned for two days, citing security concerns. The authorities have invoked Section 144, a legal provision that restricts large gatherings in times of unrest. This ban will remain in effect on Friday and Saturday.
The government explained that the protests posed a security risk as they could become targets for terrorists and disrupt public life. This action follows similar measures taken by the government in the past when PTI organized protests.
Additionally, the Punjab government has ordered the closure of all educational institutions, both public and private, on Friday. Although the official notice did not specify the reason, it is widely believed that the escalating student protests influenced this decision. Student protests have spread to various cities across Punjab, with demonstrators demanding justice for the alleged victim in Lahore.
Over the past few days, hundreds of students have been arrested across the province for engaging in violent protests. They have been accused of blocking roads, damaging property, and injuring security personnel. Despite the growing unrest, a government investigation team has found no evidence of rape, and the alleged victim’s family has denied the claims.
In response to the protests, the government has intensified its crackdown, arresting hundreds of students, many of whom are suspected of being instigators of violence. Law enforcement agencies are using CCTV footage to identify and arrest more individuals involved in the protests.
As the situation remains tense, the government’s decision to close schools and colleges and ban public gatherings aims to prevent further unrest and maintain law and order.
