LAHORE: The Punjab home department has imposed Section 144 on five different activities ahead of Eidul Azha as a precautionary measure to protect environment, health and lives of citizens across the province.

The Section 144 has been imposed in the province from June 5 to 11, says an order issued here on Saturday.

Through the order, the home department has banned sale and purchase of sacrificial animals except in notified cattle markets across Punjab. The ban has also been imposed on throwing animal waste in manholes, drains or canals.

It also bans burning heads and trotters of sacrificial animals at public places; bathing and boating in rivers, streams, canals and dams. The display of firearms and ammunition has also been strictly prohibited across Punjab.

A home department spokesperson says Section 144 has been imposed to maintain law and order and to protect the environment and human lives. “There are sufficient grounds to proceed under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, to prevent disturbance of public peace and danger to human life within the territorial limits of Punjab province.

The spokesperson stated the mentioned activities not only pose a threat to public safety and health but also cause anxiety among people.

The spokesperson also emphasised that no banned organisation will be allowed to collect animal hides during Eidul Azha. Only organisations registered with the Punjab Charity Commission will be permitted to collect animal hides.

The spokesperson said that the administration and law-enforcement agencies across the province have been directed to ensure implementation of the orders in letter and spirit.

Published in Dawn, June 1st, 2025