Rangers Deployed in Islamabad, Punjab Ahead of PTI's September 27 March

The federal government has authorised the deployment of Pakistan Rangers in Islamabad and multiple districts of Punjab in anticipation of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) planned march on the capital set for September 27.

A notification from the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics, reported by Geo News, confirmed that Rangers personnel are to be deployed from September 20 to October 5, 2026. The move follows requests by the Chief Commissioner of Islamabad Capital Territory and the Home Department of Punjab, invoking powers under the Pakistan Rangers Ordinance, 1959 and the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997.

According to the notification, the Rangers are tasked with maintaining order and may take necessary action in self-defence against any violent threats encountered during their deployment, acting within the limits of the law.

The Ministry of Interior has instructed Rangers and police to implement full security measures and respond appropriately to any violent incidents or attacks by disruptive groups. Containers have been placed at key locations as a precaution, though all roads reportedly remain open.

The PTI is moving ahead with its plans to stage a protest march, demanding the release of its detained founder Imran Khan and what it calls restoration of constitutional supremacy. Meanwhile, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, told Geo News that negotiations with PTI could only proceed if the march is postponed. He noted ongoing backdoor contacts but expressed skepticism that the march would actually occur, vowing that no one would be allowed to proceed towards Islamabad.