With Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) expected to stage a long march on September 27, the Punjab government has formally asked federal authorities to deploy army troops and Rangers across multiple districts in the province. The move comes as officials brace for heightened political activity in the days surrounding the march.
Sources familiar with the matter said Punjab has specifically asked for Rangers personnel to be stationed in Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, and Mianwali. Separately, the Punjab Home Department has requested that army personnel be deployed in Rawalpindi as an added security measure.
Deployment Sought Until October 5
A letter sent by the Punjab government to federal authorities has requested that both army and Rangers deployments remain in place until October 5. Sources indicated the extended timeline was chosen to ensure law and order is maintained throughout the period of anticipated political activity tied to the PTI long march.
The request was reportedly reviewed by the Punjab Cabinet’s Standing Committee on Law and Justice, according to sources with knowledge of the discussions.
Islamabad Police Seeks Thousands of Extra Personnel
Separately, Islamabad Police has asked for 18,000 additional personnel from Punjab and Sindh to strengthen security ahead of the planned march. Of this number, 16,000 personnel have been requested from Punjab Police, while Sindh Police has been asked to provide 2,000 more.
Police sources added that Islamabad Police has also sought the assistance of three deputy inspectors general (DIGs), seven senior superintendents of police (SSPs), and 18 superintendents of police (SPs) from the two provinces.
These combined requests form part of broader security arrangements being finalized in Islamabad and its surrounding areas as authorities prepare for the political activity expected around the PTI long march on September 27.