Pakistan has imposed Section 144 in Rawalpindi from October 10 to October 17, ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit. This move is aimed at ensuring law and order as the country prepares to host this significant international event. The SCO summit, scheduled for October 15 and 16, will see representation from multiple member nations, including India, China, Pakistan, Iran, and Russia, along with dialogue partners from across the globe.

Section 144, a legal provision that allows the government to prohibit public gatherings, rallies, and other activities, has been enforced to prevent any untoward incidents that may disrupt the summit. This regulation empowers the local authorities to curb any political assemblies or protests that could pose security risks during the high-profile meetings.

The Punjab government made this decision following a request from the district administration, which cited concerns about potential threats to public safety and critical infrastructure. The government aims to thwart any attempts that could undermine the smooth conduct of the summit, as Rawalpindi and Islamabad are both key venues for the event.

SCO Summit: A Significant Global Gathering

The SCO is an intergovernmental organization founded in 2001 in Shanghai, China, with the aim of promoting economic, political, and security cooperation among its members. Over the years, it has expanded to include nine full members and several dialogue partners, making it a prominent platform for collaboration across Asia and Eurasia. The upcoming meeting will focus on regional peace, security, and economic development in the context of the global geopolitical landscape.

India will be represented at the summit by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, while several other nations, including Iran, China, and Russia, are also expected to send high-level delegations. This meeting is seen as critical, given the current geopolitical climate, and Pakistan is determined to present itself as a stable and secure host nation.

Tightened Security Measures Across Rawalpindi and Islamabad

In addition to imposing Section 144, the Pakistan central government has deployed troops from the Pakistan Army in Islamabad from October 5 to 17, under Article 245 of the Constitution. These measures are designed to maintain law and order, particularly as both Rawalpindi and Islamabad will host several high-profile sessions of the SCO summit. The authorities have also announced the closure of marriage halls, restaurants, and cafes for five days in the twin cities to reduce the risk of large gatherings that could pose security concerns.

In a related move, the police have issued strict warnings to traders, hotel owners, and business operators, informing them that violations of the restrictions would lead to severe penalties. This is part of a broader effort to ensure that the summit proceeds smoothly without any disruptions from public activities or gatherings.

Moreover, the authorities have taken additional steps to secure Adiala Jail, where former Prime Minister Imran Khan is currently being held. Security has been ramped up around the facility, and the government has placed restrictions on visits from Khan's supporters, lawyers, or family members during the summit period.

Pakistan’s Efforts to Ensure a Smooth SCO Summit

Pakistan is going all out to ensure the successful conduct of the SCO summit. The government’s decision to implement Section 144 in Rawalpindi and deploy military forces in Islamabad underlines its commitment to providing a secure environment for the event. The imposition of such stringent measures highlights the significance of this international gathering for the country. The summit offers Pakistan an opportunity to showcase its capability to manage and host a large-scale, high-profile event involving several key global leaders.

As part of its preparations, Pakistan is also enhancing its security apparatus to prevent any potential threats from domestic or external sources. The summit is not only a chance for Pakistan to strengthen its diplomatic ties within the region but also to project an image of stability in the face of political and economic challenges.

This security clampdown, however, has raised concerns among some sections of the population, especially traders and small business owners, who rely on regular public activities for their income. The closure of businesses and public spaces in Rawalpindi and Islamabad is expected to cause some disruption to daily life, but the government maintains that these measures are necessary to ensure the safety of the summit’s participants.

By deploying the army and restricting movement in critical areas, Pakistan aims to minimize the risk of any security breaches during the event. The authorities have also stressed the importance of adhering to the restrictions, warning that failure to comply could lead to penalties and further action.

This move aligns with Pakistan's broader strategy to ensure peace and order during international events of this magnitude. The country is determined to leave a positive impression on the global stage, especially as it seeks to expand its role within the SCO and leverage its membership for economic and security collaborations.

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With these measures in place, Pakistan is set to welcome the international community to Islamabad for the SCO summit, a pivotal event for regional cooperation and security.