Punjab seeks Rangers deployment ahead of PTI protest

Lahore: The Punjab government has sought Rangers deployment in three districts of the province to deal with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) protest scheduled for November 24.

According sources, the Punjab Home Department has formally requested the Interior Ministry to deploy Rangers in Rawalpindi, Jhelum, and Attock to maintain law and order during the PTI protest.

The Rangers deployment sought includes two wings in Rawalpindi and Attock from November 22 for an indefinite period. Rangers have been recommended for deployment in Jhelum from November 22 to 27.

The decision was made following recommendations from the respective district administrations.

Meanwhile, Attock Deputy Commissioner Rao Atif Raza has imposed Section 144 across the district, banning all types of gatherings, sit-ins, rallies, and processions. The display of all kinds of weapons will also be banned under Section 144.

Earlier, the Rawalpindi authorities imposed Section 144 until November 26, in response to the PTI founder's call for a protest in Islamabad on November 24. All kinds of gatherings, processions, rallies, and gatherings of more than four people are prohibited.

Imran Khan’s sister Aleema Khan claimed on Wednesday that the PTI founder will lead the November 24 protest following his release in the Toshakhana 2 case. Aleema said, "I still cannot believe that Imran Khan has been granted bail. I am confirming his [PTI founder’s] bail frequently. There still exists a fear that the PTI founder will be arrested in any other case,” she said.

On Nov 20, the federal government had also decided to deploy Rangers for the PTI forthcoming protest in Islamabad on November 24. According to details, the Islamabad chief commissioner had penned a letter to the Interior Ministry for the deployment of Rangers and FC personnel.

The Rangers and FC will have the power in line with the Anti-Terrorism Act. They will extend their support to the Islamabad police to maintain law and order in the federal capital city.