QUETTA: The Balochistan government has imposed Section 144 across the province for a period of 15 days, prohibiting public gatherings and even the wearing of face masks.

According to a notification issued by the provincial Home Department, the restrictions include a ban on carrying weapons, assemblies of more than five people, and covering the face with masks or mufflers in public spaces.

The notification further stated that no rallies, protests, or sit-ins will be allowed during the 15-day period, and strict action will be taken against violations.

The notification further stated that under the order of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, there were already operations against black glasses of vehicles in the province.

Earlier, a special meeting was held in Quetta chaired by Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti on July 26.

On the occasion, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, addressing the current security situation, declared that terrorists affiliated with “Fitna-e-Hindustan” will meet a dreadful end.

He stated that Indian-sponsored terrorists and their facilitators will be brought to justice, vowing firm action. “Those challenging the writ of the state will be dealt with an iron hand,” the minister asserted.