RAWALPINDI: The Punjab government has decided not to allow Pakistan Awami (PAT’s) activists to gather and stage protest demonstrations across the province on May 11, Dawn has learnt.

The PAT, led by Prof Tahirul Qadri, announced holding countrywide protest demonstrations on May 11. As PAT leaders have started mobilising their workers across the country – especially in Punjab, police chief Khan Baig in an urgent letter directed regional police chiefs to take all possible preventive measures to avoid any untoward situation.

The Punjab government believes that the protest demonstration by the PAT will have an impact on public peace and may create the law and order situation.

Security sources said Mr Baig had directed divisional police chiefs, Special Branch, Counter Terrorism Department and Punjab Highway Police to keep vigilance on the activists planning to participate in the Lahore demonstration.

Mr Baig wrote that during the PAT demonstration, act of terrorism could not be ruled out in the prevailing security situation; therefore, adequate security measures should be put in place to maintain law and order and to protect the lives and property of people.

The police and Special Branch were also directed not to allow anybody to force people/traders to shut down their business and join the protest.