Key Takeaways
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi hints at potential governor's rule.
- Rangers deployed in Islamabad and Punjab districts ahead of PTI's September 27 march.
- Federal government authorizes deployment from September 20 to October 5.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has been warned by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi that the party is not prepared for its planned long march on September 27 in Islamabad. Governor Kundi stated that the Constitution allows for the imposition of governor's rule, and that PTI members are now looking for ways to avoid such a scenario.
In response to the PTI's planned march, the federal government has authorized the deployment of Rangers in Islamabad and several districts of Punjab. The deployment, which began on September 20 and will continue until October 5, is aimed at maintaining law and order during the march.
According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control, the Rangers will be deployed under Sections 7(b) and 10 of the Pakistan Rangers Ordinance, 1959, and Sections 4 and 5 of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997. The Rangers are empowered to respond appropriately in self-defence to any threats or violent activities encountered in the course of their duties.
The Punjab government has also requested the federal government to deploy Rangers in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, and Mianwali districts from September 22 to October 5 to assist the provincial police in maintaining law and order. The deployment is intended to ensure the safety and security of the area during the PTI's planned march.
The Rangers, equipped with riot gear, have been seen standing guard in Islamabad and other districts. The deployment is a clear indication of the government's readiness to handle any potential disruptions or violent activities during the march.
Governor Kundi's statement and the deployment of Rangers reflect the tension between the PTI and the government. The PTI has been vocal about its plans to challenge the current political landscape, while the government is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and security of the capital and other key areas.
The PTI's long march is expected to draw significant attention and could potentially lead to further political tensions. The government's decision to deploy Rangers underscores its commitment to maintaining stability and order during the march.
The Rangers' deployment is part of a broader strategy to ensure the safety and security of the capital and other key areas. The government has emphasized the need for peaceful and orderly conduct during the march, and has warned that any violent activities will be dealt with firmly.
