QUETTA: The Balochistan government has imposed Section 144 throughout the province for a 30-day period, citing reports indicating the likelihood of activities and gatherings that may adversely affect law and order and safety and security of the public.
Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure empowers the authorities to “issue order absolute at once in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger”.
The government has issued a notification through the Home Department, imposing several prohibitions across Balochistan immediately.
The measures include a restriction on the display, carrying, possession or use of weapons of any kind in public places, except where specifically authorised under the law.
The government also issued a ban on the assembly or gathering of five or more persons at any public place, including sit-ins, processions, rallies and demonstrations.
Additionally, the order restricts the covering or concealing of the face in public places, particularly through the use of mufflers, masks or any other means that obstructs or prevents the identification of a person.
These restrictions will remain in force for 30 days “unless withdrawn, modified, or extended by the competent authority in accordance with law,” the notification said.
It further directed all relevant law enforcement agencies and district administrations to ensure the strict implementation and enforcement of the order in accordance with the law.
“Any person found violating the provisions of this order shall be proceeded against in accordance with the relevant provisions of law,” the notification said.
Published in Dawn, September 25th, 2026
