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”.

Its latest imposition was notified by the Home Department in a Sept 23 order, seen by Dawn.

The order said the government had received reports “indicating the likelihood of activities and gatherings which may adversely affect public peace, tranquillity, law and order, and the safety and security of the general public”.

In view of the reports, the government imposed the following prohibitions throughout Balochistan with immediate effect for a period of 30 days:

1. Restriction on display, carrying, possession or use of weapons of any kind in public places except where specifically authorised under the law
2. Ban on assembly or gathering of five or more persons at any public place, including sit-ins, processions, rallies, demonstrations, and similar gatherings
3. Restriction on covering or concealing of the face in public places, particularly through the use of mufflers, masks, or any other means which obstructs or prevents identification of a person

These restrictions would remain in force for 30 days “unless withdrawn, modified, or extended by the competent authority in accordance with law”, the notification said.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 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.