SCO summit: Section 144 imposed in Rawalpindi till Oct 17
1. Punjab government says it took this decision on district administration’s request to ensure security of people
**LAHORE:** The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 in Rawalpindi until October 17 to maintain law and order during the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.
Utilizing the powers granted under Section 144, the provincial government has prohibited all political assemblies, gatherings, sit-ins, rallies, demonstrations, pillion riding, aerial firing, pigeon flying, drone usage, and laser light displays in the district from October 10 to 17.
This measure is part of Pakistan's efforts to ensure the smooth conduct of the high-level summit, with Islamabad set to host the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting next week. Notably, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is among the major foreign leaders visiting the country.
The Punjab government stated that the decision was made at the request of the district administration to ensure the security of people, installations, and buildings, as well as to prevent any potential threats or untoward incidents.
To further enhance security, the federal government has deployed troops from the Pakistan Army in Islamabad from October 5 to 17 under Article 245 of the Constitution, aiming to maintain law and order during the SCO summit.
The meeting of the SCO—comprising nine full members, including China, India, Iran, and Russia—is scheduled for October 15 and 16 in Islamabad.
In addition, officials announced the closure of marriage halls, restaurants, and cafes for five days—from October 12 to 16—in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Notices have also been issued to traders and hotel owners by the police, warning that violations will result in penalties.
