Punjab Extends Section 144 and Drone Ban for Another 30 Days

Punjab authorities have extended the imposition of Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure along with a ban on drone operations for an additional 30 days across the province. The extension indicates that the security and public order conditions that necessitated the original restrictions have not sufficiently stabilised to warrant their removal.

Section 144 prohibits public gatherings and assemblies, and its continued imposition reflects ongoing administrative concern about the potential for unrest, political demonstrations, or security incidents in the province. The drone ban, running concurrently, restricts aerial surveillance and unmanned aerial vehicle operations in designated areas.

The decision by Punjab's provincial government to roll over these restrictions represents a significant curtailment of civil liberties for another month. Such measures are typically invoked during periods of heightened political tension, security alerts, or in anticipation of major public events that could be exploited for disruption.

Civil liberties groups and political parties have consistently challenged the prolonged use of Section 144 as an instrument of administrative control beyond its intended emergency scope. The latest extension is expected to draw renewed criticism from opposition quarters and rights organisations.