Rangers deployed in Islamabad, Punjab ahead of PTI march

The federal government has approved the deployment of Pakistan Rangers in Islamabad and several districts of Punjab ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) planned march towards the federal capital on September 27.

According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics, the deployment will remain in place from September 20 to October 5, 2026. The move is part of security arrangements being made ahead of the PTI protest.

The deployment was approved following requests from the Chief Commissioner of Islamabad Capital Territory and the Punjab Home Department. The decision was taken under relevant provisions of the Pakistan Rangers Ordinance, 1959, and the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997.

Rangers personnel have been authorised to perform their duties under the applicable laws and instructions issued by the Islamabad administration and Punjab government.

The notification also allows the deployed personnel to respond in self-defence if they face threats or violent activity while performing their duties. Rangers and police have been directed to take necessary measures against any violent activity or security threat.

The PTI has announced a march on Islamabad for September 27. The party is demanding the release of its founder Imran Khan and what it calls the restoration of constitutional supremacy.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah said talks with the PTI could not move forward unless the party postponed its planned march.

Speaking on a television programme, Sanaullah said the government was still maintaining backchannel contacts with PTI leaders. He said discussions were continuing despite public statements from both sides.

Sanaullah also said the government would not allow anyone to march into Islamabad. He said security measures had been taken as a precaution, including the placement of containers at different locations.

However, he added that roads in the capital were currently open.