ISLAMABAD: In anticipation of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) planned nationwide protest and march to Islamabad, the Punjab government has reportedly requested the federal authorities to suspend or limit mobile and internet services in certain areas starting September 27. Sources indicated that the Punjab Home Department has approached the Ministry of Interior with a proposal to weaken signals and temporarily shut down communications in specific localities.
The move comes as PTI prepares to hold a large-scale demonstration demanding the release of its leader Imran Khan and the reinforcement of constitutional rights. According to reports, the Punjab authorities are seeking restrictions in parts of Attock and Rawalpindi, including neighborhoods such as Brahma, Bahter, Taxila, Wah Sadar, and Chakri.
Earlier on Wednesday, the provincial government also petitioned for the deployment of Rangers personnel across four districts—Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, and Mianwali—to ensure law and order during the protest activities. The Home Department requested three Rangers units for Rawalpindi and five for Attock, with additional teams proposed for Jhelum and Mianwali.
Additionally, the Punjab government has declared Section 144 across the province until October 5, banning gatherings of five or more people in public spaces, as well as rallies, processions, sit-ins, and demonstrations. The order also restricts carrying weapons and discourages incitement to unlawful assembly, though it exempts religious and funeral gatherings.
Security measures have been intensified at the federal level as well, with authorities sealing major highways around Islamabad using shipping containers and deploying thousands of police and paramilitary personnel. In recent days, several of Khan’s family members and hundreds of PTI activists have been detained to prevent unrest.
Two highways connecting Islamabad to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province have been closed, and barricades have been erected around key government buildings, including Parliament and the Prime Minister’s residence. Khan, a former cricket icon and opposition leader, has labeled himself a political prisoner following his ousting in 2022, and has vowed to proceed with the march despite the restrictions.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi warned that police are instructed to respond decisively if violence erupts during the march, emphasizing that authorities will take strong action if necessary. PTI Chairman Gohar Khan reaffirmed that the march would continue regardless of the blockade.
The rally comes amid widespread public dissatisfaction over inflation, rising fuel costs, and recent political turmoil, including Khan’s arrest in 2023, which triggered nationwide protests and clashes with security forces. Despite facing multiple charges, including accusations related to state gifts, incitement of violence, and unlawful marriage, Khan maintains his innocence and claims he is being persecuted for political reasons.
