After the recent clash between forces and violent PTM protestors, Section 144 has been imposed to prevent abuse of law and order situation from exacerbating further. The district administration of South Waziristan on Tuesday banned public gatherings, rallies, and processions for a month-long period to maintain law and order in the tribal district, as per the notification. Deputy Commissioner South Waziristan Nauman Afzal Afridi issued a notification imposing Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). “A gathering of more than five people will also not be allowed and vehicles are not to have tinted windows”, stated the notification of the district administration.
The move also prohibits delivering “provocative and objectionable speeches”, carrying and displaying of all kinds of arms and ammunition and other lethal weapons, aerial firing, and use of tinted glasses on vehicles. “Any person(s) contravening this order shall render himself/ themselves whatever the case maypunishable under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC),” added the notification.
The move comes following tensions in North Waziristan after a clash occurred between security officials and protesters while the former effectively repulsed the attempt of terrorists. It may be recalled that, five army soldiers were wounded in firing opened by a group of Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) while attacking Khar Kamar check post, while, a Pakistan Army soldier embraced martyrdom in exchange of fire with terrorists, who attacked Makki Garh Post in Shawal, North Waziristan, said Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
It is pertinent to mention that polls for 16 seats will be held on July 2 in the tribal districts. Disgruntled candidates have said that weeks before polls, imposition of Section 144 is not a democratic move.
