NA passes Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Bill 2024

The "Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Bill 2024" has been approved by the National Assembly following its earlier passage in the Senate, 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Friday. 

The bill, presented by Barrister Daniyal Chaudhry, aims to regulate public gatherings and protests in Islamabad but has faced strong opposition, which has branded the bill as an authoritarian measure.

According to the bill, holding a protest or gathering in Islamabad without prior permission will result in a three-year jail term. A second violation could lead to 10-year imprisonment. Designated areas for gatherings include Mauza Sangjani or any other location specified by the government. Even with permission, a police officer can disperse the gathering at any time.

The process for obtaining permission involves submitting an application to the District Magistrate (Deputy Commissioner) at least seven days before the event. The application must detail the location, number of participants, timings, and objectives of the assembly. If the Deputy Commissioner denies the permission, an appeal can be made to the Chief Commissioner, and further review requests can be submitted to the Interior Secretary if necessary.

The Deputy Commissioner has the authority to restrict or modify permits on grounds of national security risks, potential violence, or disturbances to public order. The bill specifies that any assembly held without permission or outside the designated areas will be considered illegal. In such cases, police officers can disperse the assembly, and members may be arrested and detained.

Furthermore, the Deputy Commissioner can declare specific areas in Islamabad as Red Zones or High-Security Zones, restricting public assemblies in these locations. A written explanation will be provided for any restrictions imposed on gatherings, and affected individuals have the right to appeal within 15 days.

The bill allows the police to disperse any assembly posing a threat to public order or national security, with the use of force if necessary. Participants of illegal assemblies can face imprisonment for up to three years and fines. Repeat offenders may face up to 10 years in jail.

Reporter: Rozina Ali