Karachi Police Deny Rumours of Citywide Protests

Karachi law enforcement addressed widespread speculation regarding potential demonstrations throughout the city on Monday, assuring citizens that the region remains stable.

Following reports of possible protest gatherings by Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), social media was filled with updates about a perceived “deteriorating situation” in Karachi, occurring shortly after a period of instability in Punjab.

However, Karachi police have stated that there are no ongoing protests anywhere in the city. It was explained that some businesses closed voluntarily due to unconfirmed information, however, the city is generally peaceful.

Law enforcement has also reminded that Section 144 is currently active across Karachi, meaning that demonstrations are not permitted. Authorities have stated that no permissions have been granted to any groups for assembly.

Authorities verified that a brief demonstration by the religious-political group close to the Sindhi Hotel located in New Karachi concluded. According to police, the area was cleared and roads were reopened for the flow of traffic.

The Sindh government had previously declared a one-month ban on public gatherings, rallies, and protests throughout the province under Section 144, citing security concerns.

According to a notification issued by the Sindh Home Department, the restriction on demonstrations and assemblies of over five individuals was put in place at the request of the Inspector General (IG) of Sindh.

The imposed ban is slated to remain in effect from October 12 to November 12, aimed at maintaining order and preventing gatherings that could potentially jeopardize public safety within the province.

This decision came after Section 144 was implemented in Rawalpindi prior to TLP’s planned protest march for a duration of 14 days.

As police cleared TLP demonstrators from Muridke and reopened vital routes for transportation, regular life started to resume in Islamabad and Rawalpindi on Monday.

According to police sources, the protest was ended on Sunday night through a successful operation, which led to the reopening of the GT Road for daily traffic.