Troops in Rawalpindi okayed for six months

• Interior ministry says Punjab government requested for army deployment
• Order comes over a month before PTI’s planned long march

ISLAMABAD: The federal government has authorised the deployment of three companies of the Pakistan Army in Rawalpindi for six months to perform “sensitive security duties” and respond to any unforeseen situation, according to an interior ministry order dated Aug 21.

“Pursuant to the request made by the Punjab Home Department […] the federal government, in exercise of the powers conferred under Article 245 of the Cons­titution, is pleased to authorise deployment of three companies of Pakistan Army for sensitive security duties in Rawalpindi to avoid any undesirable situation as well as to respond effectively in any unforeseen situation as per the requirement of the district administration for a period of six months with immediate effect,” the order, a copy of which is available with Dawn, said.

Article 245 of the Constitution provides for deployment of the armed forces in aid of civil power. Under the provision, the armed forces may be called upon by the government to assist civilian authorities in maintaining law and order, protecting key installations or responding to emergencies.

The deployment has been approved more than a month before the planned Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) march towards Islamabad. The party claims that the Sept 27 long march could draw around two million participants.

The deployment also comes amid controversy over implementation of the Supreme Court’s order concerning Mr Khan’s treatment at Shifa International Hospital, with PTI and PML-N trading allegations of contempt of court.

Rawalpindi, a garrison city and home to key military and government installations, is frequently placed on heightened security during major political activity, religious events and periods of increased security concern.

The city also borders Islamabad and has seen extensive security arrangements during protest movements, elections and large public gatherings.

The Punjab Home Department’s request and the subsequent federal approval indicate concerns about potential law and order challenges in the coming months. The order cites the need to prevent any untoward incident and ensure a rapid response, without specifying the exact nature of the threat.

District administrations in Punjab have previously sought army assistance under Article 245 during Muharram, election periods, and times of heightened terror alerts. With the deployment approved for an initial period of six months “with immediate effect”, the army units will be placed at the disposal of the Rawalpindi district administration and will perform duties as assigned by the civilian authorities.

Published in Dawn, August 23rd, 2026