LAHORE: A high-level meeting with Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif in the chair on Sunday decided to impose a ban on taking out post-victory rallies by candidates during the second phase of the local government election.

A decision to the effect was made to improve law and order situation as deaths were reported from some areas during celebratory firing.

The meeting expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made for ensuring peaceful atmosphere during polling. Addressing the meeting, Shahbaz Sharif said he was grieved at tragic incidents occurred in Faisalabad, Nankana Sahib and Phoolnagar.He ordered arrest of suspects involved in the incidents.

The chief minister directed that ban on carrying and displaying arms must be implemented and indiscriminate action should be taken against violators.He said those involved in celebratory firing should be behind bars.

The Punjab IG and home secretary presented initial reports on the celebratory-firing incidents occurred in Faisalabad, Nankana Sahib and Phoolnagar to the chief minister during the meeting.

Spokesman for Punjab government Zaeem Husain Qadri, Chief Secretary Khizar Hayat Gondal, information secretary and respective officials attended the meeting.

Published in Dawn, November 2nd, 2015

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