LAHORE: Punjab Assembly opposition members Ejaz Shafi, Sheikh Imtiaz Mahmood and others have challenged the restrictions imposed under Section 144 of CrPC across the province before the Lahore High Court.

A joint petition, filed through Advocate Azhar Siddique, contends that the recent imposition of Section 144 was aimed at preventing the PTI protest and sit-in. It questions the timing and legal justification for imposing Section 144 across Punjab only days before the announced protest, which is now postponed.

It says the restrictions have been imposed across the province for 13 days, rather than being limited to areas where a specific threat has been identified.

The petition contends that restrictions on peaceful assembly and political activities conflict with fundamental constitutional rights.

It asks the court to summon the official record and examine the constitutional scope of the government’s powers to impose Section 144, particularly in relation to fundamental rights and the exercise of administrative authority.

The petition further urges the court to seek the legal basis for any proposed suspension or restriction of mobile phone and internet services.

Through an interim application, the petitioners seek suspension of the restrictions on peaceful and unarmed gatherings.

They also ask the court to restrain the authorities from arresting, detaining or registering FIRs against individuals merely for engaging in peaceful political activities.

Published in Dawn, September 27th, 2026