The district administration in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Bajaur district on Sunday imposed a 30-day ban on political gatherings, hate speech against the state and the display of firearms and other weapons, citing the prevailing law and order situation.
The restrictions were introduced under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) and will remain in effect from November 15 to December 15, unless modified or withdrawn by the authorities.
According to an official notification seen by Dawn, Bajaur Deputy Commissioner Adnan Farid Afridi approved the measures to protect public life and property and maintain peace across the district.
The notification stated that the prevailing security situation required additional preventive measures to minimise potential threats and ensure public safety.
Law enforcement agencies have been directed to maintain heightened vigilance, strengthen security arrangements at the district’s entry and exit points and prevent unauthorised gatherings in public places.
The administration also emphasised the need to avert any untoward incidents through increased monitoring and enforcement of the restrictions.
“Sufficient grounds exist to believe that immediate preventive measures are required to be taken,” the notification stated.
Under the order, all forms of political gatherings are prohibited, along with speech classified as hateful towards the state and the public display of arms and weapons.
The notification warned that individuals violating the restrictions would face legal action under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), which deals with disobedience of orders issued by public servants.
The latest measures follow earlier security-related restrictions imposed in Bajaur amid concerns over militant violence and threats to public safety.
In October, the district administration banned pillion riding on motorcycles for 10 days, citing the security situation at the time.
Bajaur, like several other districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has faced persistent security challenges, including attacks targeting police and other law enforcement personnel.
Last month, a police officer was martyred when terrorists attacked a police post in the district, highlighting the continuing threats faced by security forces.
The latest restrictions are intended to strengthen preventive security arrangements and reduce the risk of further violence during the 30-day period.
Authorities have instructed law enforcement personnel to remain alert and enforce the order throughout the district until its scheduled expiry on December 15, unless an earlier decision is made to amend or withdraw it.