LAHORE — The Punjab Home Department on Sunday announced an extension of Section 144 across the province for another seven days, until November 8, citing persistent security threats and concerns over public order.
The notification imposes a continued ban on rallies, protests, sit-ins, and public gatherings, warning that such activities could become targets for terrorist attacks or be exploited by what officials described as “malignant elements” seeking to carry out anti-state activities.
“In view of security threats, public processions and sit-ins can be soft targets for terrorists,” the department said in a statement. “Malignant elements can take advantage of public protests and carry out anti-state activities to fulfil their nefarious intentions.”
As per the Punjab home department, there is a complete ban on the publication and distribution of inflammatory, hateful or sectarian material.https://t.co/9klcJ8lG7G
— Dawn.com (@dawn_com) November 2, 2025
Under the order, the display of all types of weapons and the use of loudspeakers are strictly prohibited throughout the province. The use of loudspeakers is only permitted for the Azan (call to prayer) and Friday sermons, the statement clarified.
Additionally, the government has imposed a ban on the publication and distribution of inflammatory, hateful, or sectarian material, citing the need to maintain communal harmony and prevent the spread of extremist rhetoric.
Authorities stated that the decision aims to protect lives and property amid a volatile security situation. Exemptions to the ban include wedding ceremonies, funerals, and burials, as well as official duties performed by law enforcement and court personnel.
The order marks the third consecutive extension since Section 144 was first imposed on October 8 for ten days, then renewed on October 18 and again on October 25. The latest decision was approved by the Cabinet Committee for Law and Order during its 39th meeting, amid ongoing tensions linked to the banned religiopolitical group Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).
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Officials said the extension was necessary to ensure stability and prevent any law and order disruptions during a period of heightened security alerts across Punjab.
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