ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari has signed the “Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act 2024,” which was approved by both houses of the country’s Parliament a day earlier.
The bill, which proposed stern action for holding unauthorized gatherings and protest rallies whether political or nonpolitical, was passed by the National Assembly on Friday, following its passage in the Senate the previous day.
The bill, introduced by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz Senator Irfan Siddique a couple of days earlier, comes just ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rally scheduled for Tomorrow (Sunday).
Under this new legislation, unauthorized public gatherings in Islamabad face severe consequences. A first offence can result in up to three years in prison, while repeat offenders may face up to ten years behind bars. Public assemblies are now required to be held only at designated venues, such as Sangjani or other locations specified by the government.
Even with official permission, police officers have the discretion to disperse gatherings. The Deputy Commissioner will oversee permission requests, which must be submitted at least seven days in advance and include details about the venue, number of participants, timing, and purpose.
Requests will be evaluated by the District Magistrate, who will consider security concerns and law enforcement clearance. Assemblies held outside designated areas will be prohibited, and the Deputy Commissioner may adjust permits as necessary.
The government also has the authority to designate certain areas of Islamabad as red zones or high-security zones. If a gathering disrupts public order and is not dispersed, police may use force to break up the assembly and arrest or detain participants.
Unauthorized gatherings will be considered illegal, with severe penalties imposed. First-time offenders could face up to three years in prison, while repeat violators may be sentenced to ten years.
8511 (2024) Ex. Gaz-I NA
