The Punjab Home Department has imposed Section 144 across the province from September 23 to October 5, banning public gatherings of five or more people at public places, roads and open spaces, reported 24NewsHD TV on Wednesday.
The notification issued by the Punjab Home Department states that gatherings, rallies, processions, sit-ins and demonstrations have been prohibited in view of serious threats to public peace and the safety of lives and property.
The order also bans carrying and displaying all kinds of weapons at public places, while restrictions have been placed on inciting or encouraging people to participate in unlawful gatherings.
However, the restrictions will not apply to wedding ceremonies, funeral prayers, burials, mosques and other places of worship. Courts, government institutions and officially permitted events have also been exempted from the restrictions.
The ban will not apply to law enforcement agencies, intelligence agencies and security personnel deployed on official duty.
According to the Home Department, law enforcement and intelligence agencies have reported immediate security threats, with intelligence reports indicating that terrorist organisations may target public gatherings.
The department said rallies, public meetings, sit-ins, processions and demonstrations could become potential targets for terrorist attacks.
The Secretary Home imposed the restrictions under Section 144(6) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, following requests from law enforcement agencies for immediate preventive security measures.
The Punjab government said protecting the lives and property of citizens remains its top priority.