The Punjab government has extended the enforcement of Section 144 across the province for another seven days, citing continued security threats. The Home Department announced on Sunday that the restrictions will now remain in place until November 15. This latest extension follows a previous order issued on November 2, which had prolonged the ban until November 8. Officials said the decision was taken after reviewing fresh intelligence reports indicating that the threat to public peace and safety has not subsided.
Under Section 144, all forms of public gatherings, rallies, protests, and sit-ins are strictly prohibited throughout Punjab. The law also bans the assembly of four or more people in public spaces to prevent any potential disruption of law and order. Authorities have emphasized that the measure is preventive and temporary, aimed at ensuring public safety during a period of heightened vigilance across major cities, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad.
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In addition to restrictions on public gatherings, the display of all types of weapons—whether licensed or unlicensed—remains completely banned. The use of loudspeakers has also been restricted, with exceptions granted only for the call to prayer (Azaan) and the Friday sermon (Khutba). Officials said these curbs are designed to prevent the spread of hate speech and incitement, which could fuel unrest or sectarian tensions.
The order also prohibits the publication and distribution of provocative or sectarian material, including pamphlets, banners, and social media posts that could incite violence or hatred. Law enforcement agencies have been directed to monitor online platforms closely to ensure compliance. However, the notification clarifies that the restrictions do not apply to funerals, weddings, or religious ceremonies conducted peacefully. Government officials, on-duty personnel, and court proceedings are also exempt from the ban.
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Authorities have justified the extension based on the “latest threat assessments” shared by security and intelligence agencies. These reports, the notification stated, make it evident that “the threat perception to public peace, tranquility, and law and order has not abated.” Officials reaffirmed that the government will continue to evaluate the situation regularly, and the restrictions may be lifted early if the security outlook improves. For now, residents across Punjab remain under strict public order regulations aimed at preventing any potential unrest.