ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad administration has requested a 10-day extension in the deployment of Pakistan Rangers in the federal capital as preparations intensify ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf’s (PTI) planned long march on October 4.
According to a letter from the office of the Islamabad chief commissioner, the administration has sought the continued deployment of 3,000 Rangers personnel from October 5 to October 15, 2026. The request comes as authorities strengthen security arrangements across the capital and its entry points.
The latest request follows an Interior Ministry notification that had authorised the deployment of Rangers in Islamabad from September 20 to October 5.
The earlier notification allowed the paramilitary force to assist the Islamabad Capital Territory Police in maintaining law and order under the Pakistan Rangers Ordinance, 1959, and relevant provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997. The personnel were authorised to respond in self-defence to threats or violent activities encountered during their duties.
The administration has been increasing security preparations since PTI announced its plan to march towards Islamabad. Containers have been placed at various locations, while additional police personnel have been brought in from Punjab and Sindh.
The PTI had initially planned the march for September 27 but later postponed it to October 4. Party leaders have subsequently reiterated that the protest would proceed as scheduled.
Restrictions on Public Gatherings
Public gatherings in Islamabad are also subject to restrictions under the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, 2024. Authorities have maintained that roads and key routes in the capital should not be blocked during the protest.
The federal government has repeatedly warned against attempts to enter Islamabad or disrupt traffic and public life. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has also urged the PTI leadership to reconsider its planned march.
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Meanwhile, government and PTI representatives have begun formal discussions aimed at reducing political tensions surrounding the proposed march. At their first meeting, both sides exchanged demands, while further talks were scheduled.
The proposed extension of the Rangers deployment comes as authorities continue preparations for October 4, while negotiations between the government and PTI remain underway.
