Punjab imposes Section 144 amid budget debate

LAHORE: The Punjab government has announce its decision to impose Section 144 across the province.

A notification issued by the Home Department has banned rallies and gatherings under Section 144. The government says it has notified the section in wake of the budget debate in the Punjab Assembly.

Section 144 will remain in effect for seven days.

Finance Minister Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman said the administration hasn’t place a ban on peaceful protests; however, it will take action if roads are blocked.

The Home Department had previously invoked Section 144 on the occasion of Eidul Adha. It had also prohibited the burning of totters on open roads and other public spaces in the province.