In a dramatic response to the Islamabad administration's order against public gatherings, Awami Muslim League (AML) Chief Sheikh Rashid has said that he will "tear Section 144 into 144 pieces."

"On Nov 2, Rawalpindi will be closed down no matter what anyone does," Rasheed told reporters Thursday adding, "from Chandi Chowk till Islamabad, people will come out onto the streets."

"We have not even started yet, we will start tomorrow from Lal Haveli," he added, referring to an old building in downtown Bohar Bazaar that serves as his political office.

"Congratulations, Nawaz Sharif, congratulations Shahbaz Sharif! You have started the game, now we will make sure you meet your end."

Earlier today, District Magistrate of Islamabad Capt (retd) Mushtaq Ahmed imposed Section 144 of the criminal procedure code (CrPC) in Islamabad for two months, creating another obstacle for Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf's (PTI) planned siege of Islamabad on November 2.

Under the order, the carrying and display of weapons and use of loudspeakers has been prohibited. Section 144 also prohibits public gatherings of five or more persons, rallies and demonstrations within Islamabad.

"No person other than the members of armed forces, civilian law enforcement agencies, Rangers and police on duty shall carry firearms or display firearms within the revenue/territorial limits of district Islamabad," said the notification issued by the magistrate's office.

Opinion

Editorial

Afghan turbulence
19 Mar, 2024

Afghan turbulence

RELATIONS between the newly formed government and Afghanistan’s de facto Taliban rulers have begun on an...
In disarray
19 Mar, 2024

In disarray

IT is clear that there is some bad blood within the PTI’s ranks. Ever since the PTI lost a key battle over ...
Festering wound
19 Mar, 2024

Festering wound

PROTESTS unfolded once more in Gwadar, this time against the alleged enforced disappearances of two young men, who...
Defining extremism
Updated 18 Mar, 2024

Defining extremism

Redefining extremism may well be the first step to clamping down on advocacy for Palestine.
Climate in focus
18 Mar, 2024

Climate in focus

IN a welcome order by the Supreme Court, the new government has been tasked with providing a report on actions taken...
Growing rabies concern
18 Mar, 2024

Growing rabies concern

DOG-BITE is an old problem in Pakistan. Amid a surfeit of public health challenges, rabies now seems poised to ...