QUETTA: The Balochistan’s government has imposed wide-ranging restrictions across the province under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code. In this sense, the restrictions will remain in force for one month and have taken immediate effect.
In this regard, the public display or use of weapons has been strictly banned. The order also prohibits pillion riding, the use of black-tinted vehicle windows, and the movement of unregistered vehicles. In addition, gatherings, processions, or assemblies involving five or more people have been barred, along with covering or concealing one’s face in public spaces.
So far, the Section 144 has been enforced in Balochistan in the past during sensitive periods, the scope and breadth of the current restrictions have drawn particular attention.
Meanwhile, the government sources maintain that the decision is preventive in nature and not targeted at any specific group.
“The objective is to protect lives and property and to ensure that law and order is not compromised,” a senior official said, requesting anonymity as he was not authorized to speak publicly.
However, the announcement has raised questions among the public regarding the circumstances that prompted such comprehensive measures. Political observers note that the timing of the restrictions could be significant, though no official clarification has yet been provided on the underlying concerns that led to the decision.
For now, citizens have been advised to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and comply fully with the orders to avoid inconvenience or legal consequences.
What remains unclear—and is becoming the focus of growing speculation—is what developments may follow in the coming days, and whether further steps are being considered by the provincial authorities.
