Balochistan under Section 144: Rallies, sit-ins and gatherings banned

Section 144 of the Code of Cri­minal Procedure empowers the authorities to “issue order absolute at once in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger”, reported Dawn News.

The government issued the notification through the Home Department.

Several prohibitions have been imposed in the region immediately.

The measures include a restriction on the display, carrying, possession or use of weapons of any kind in public places, except where specifically authorised under the law, reported Dawn News.

The government also issued a ban on the assembly or gathering of five or more persons at any public place, including sit-ins, processions, rallies and demonstrations, the newspaper reported.

These restrictions will remain in force for 30 days “unless withdrawn, modified, or extended by the competent authority in accordance with law,” the notification said as quoted by Dawn News.

“Any person found violating the provisions of this order shall be proceeded against in accordance with the relevant provisions of law,” the notification said.

Balochistan, one of the largest provinces in Bangladesh, has witnessed insurgency for decades led by ethnic Baloch separatists who seek greater autonomy and a larger share of its natural resources.