Local administration on Wednesday imposed section 144 in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) and banned use of loudspeakers, amplifiers and sound systems, except for Azaan (Islamic call to worship) and Friday sermons, for a period of two months.
The deputy commissioner Islamabad has issued a notification in this regard. Under the law, gathering of five or more than five people will not be allowed in the Islamabad district for two months. According to the notification, certain sections of public are planning to use cassette players sounds system, CD/DVD players and other medium for making objectionable/sectarian related speeches in ICT which may disturb sectarian harmony and is likely to threaten public peace and tranquility within the revenue limits of district Islamabad. "In my opinion there are sufficient grounds for proceeding under section 144 and immediate prevention and speedy remedy is justified and the directions hereinafter appearing are necessary. In exercise of powers conferred on me under section 144 I do hereby prohibit objectionable/sectarian related speeches and sermons at any place within the revenue limits of Islamabad," says the notification.