In light of the four-day International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) 2024 at the Karachi Expo Centre, the Karachi administration has imposed a ban on all public gatherings until November 24. The event, organized by the Ministry of Defence and the Defence Export Promotion Organisation (DEPO), is taking place from November 19 to 22.
A notification issued by the Karachi division commissioner’s office on November 18, referencing Additional Inspector General Javed Akhtar Odho, highlighted concerns that public gatherings could present significant security risks and disrupt the convenience of international guests attending IDEAS 2024.
Consequently, Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi has enforced a complete ban on protests, demonstrations, sit-ins, rallies, and gatherings of more than five people across Karachi Division for seven days, starting Monday. This measure is implemented under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), which allows district administrations to restrict certain activities for a specific time to maintain order.
The notification emphasized the necessity of this action to prevent potential disturbances and safeguard the security situation. It also grants police officers the authority to file cases against violators.
Additionally, the Sindh government has announced the closure of private schools near Sharea Faisal and Habib Ibrahim Rahmatullah Road from today (Tuesday) for four days, as dignitaries will frequently travel through these areas to attend the Expo Centre.
This extension of Section 144 follows a similar order in October, prior to marches planned by a religio-political party and civil society. On October 13, protests outside the Karachi Press Club led to clashes with police, resulting in the suspension of ten officers for their treatment of activists. Additionally, over 20 PTI members were arrested for violating Section 144 during a rally in Saddar’s Empress Market.
