Army Deployment in Rawalpindi for Six Months Under Article 245

The federal government has approved the deployment of three companies of the Pakistan Army in Rawalpindi for six months under Article 245 of the Constitution.

The decision was taken following a request from the Punjab Home Department, with the deployment intended to support sensitive security duties and help the district administration respond to any unforeseen security situation.

Why Is the Army Being Deployed in Rawalpindi?

According to the Interior Ministry notification, the deployment has been authorised to avoid any undesirable situation and enable an effective response to unforeseen circumstances according to the requirements of the Rawalpindi district administration.

The notification, dated August 21, states that three companies of the Pakistan Army will perform sensitive security duties in the city. The deployment takes effect immediately and will remain in place for six months.

The government has not publicly specified a single threat that triggered the six-month arrangement. However, the decision comes amid heightened political and security activity in the Rawalpindi-Islamabad region.

What Does Article 245 Mean?

Article 245 of the Constitution of Pakistan allows the armed forces to assist civilian authorities when required.

In practical terms, troops deployed under this provision can support the civilian administration in maintaining security, protecting sensitive locations and responding to situations where additional security assistance is required.

The current order specifically places three army companies in Rawalpindi for sensitive security duties.

Rawalpindi Security Situation

The decision follows a recent incident on Mall Road in Rawalpindi in which an armed man allegedly opened fire on security personnel, injuring a patrolling officer before being killed in retaliatory firing, according to reports cited by The Express Tribune.

The development also comes ahead of a planned September 27 long march towards Islamabad by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). The planned political activity has added to the security considerations surrounding the Rawalpindi-Islamabad area.

Rawalpindi is a major garrison city and is home to important military and government installations. Security arrangements in the city are often strengthened during major political gatherings, protests and periods of heightened security concerns.

How Long Will the Army Stay?

The deployment has been approved for six months with immediate effect.

The Interior Ministry has authorised three companies of the Pakistan Army, rather than announcing a citywide military takeover or a change in civilian administration. The troops are intended to assist the district administration with security duties as required.

What Happens Next?

For now, the army deployment will remain in place for the approved six-month period. The district administration will determine the security requirements for which the deployed personnel are needed.

The government has described the measure as a precautionary security arrangement aimed at preventing undesirable incidents and ensuring a rapid response if an unforeseen situation develops.