Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif presided over a high level meeting, here Tuesday, which decided to impose a ban on display and carrying of firearms in 12 districts of the province in the first phase of local bodies' elections. This ban imposed under Section 144 will be applicable on October 30, 31 and November 1. Carrying of licensed weapons will also not be allowed.
Addressing the meeting, the Chief Minister directed that foolproof security arrangements should be made in 12 districts of Punjab in the first phase of local bodies' elections. He said that the ban on display and carrying of firearms should be strictly implemented for ensuring a peaceful atmosphere in the first phase of local bodies' elections and indiscriminate action should be taken under the law in case of violation. He said that violation of the ban in this regard would not be tolerated.
Shahbaz Sharif directed that all out measures should be taken for maintaining a peaceful atmosphere on the polling day as it is a national responsibility. He said that upholding of law and justice is the prime responsibility of police and administration. He said that police and administration will have to perform their duties in an active manner for the peaceful conduct of first phase of local bodies' elections in 12 districts of the province. The Chief Minister directed that police and administration should ensure strict implementation of security plan evolved for the protection of life and property of citizens in their respective districts. He said that commissioners and RPOs of concerned divisions as well as DCOs and DPOs of concerned districts should personally remain in the field.