By Qasim Ali
LAHORE: Punjab government has extended the enforcement of Section 144 across the province for an additional seven days. According to a notification issued by the Punjab Home Department on Sunday, the existing restrictions on all kinds of protests, rallies, processions, sit-ins, public gatherings, and similar activities have been extended till Saturday, November 8, 2025.A spokesperson for the Home Department said that under Section 144, the assembly of four or more persons at public places shall remain strictly prohibited throughout the province. The display of firearms, use of loudspeakers, and publication or distribution of inflammatory, hate-based, or sectarian material are also completely banned under this order.The spokesperson said that the extension in Section 144 has been made to maintain public order, protect human lives and property, and counter any potential threats to peace and security. The decision was taken in view of intelligence reports regarding possible terrorist threats and concerns over law and order.It was clarified that the restrictions will not apply to wedding ceremonies, funeral prayers, or burial rites, nor to government officials performing their official duties or court proceedings. The spokesperson further stated that loudspeakers may only be used for the call to prayer (Azaan) and Friday sermons.He added that public rallies and sit-ins could serve as soft targets for terrorists, and miscreants could exploit such gatherings to carry out anti-state activities or disrupt peace. Therefore, in the larger interest of public safety and security, the Government of Punjab has extended Section 144 till November 8.
The Home Department has issued instructions for wide public dissemination of the notification to ensure awareness and compliance across all districts of Punjab.
