Punjab prepares to handle long march.

LAHORE -- The government has started mulling measures to keep the situation under control during the opposition's long march scheduled to be held in the last week of October.

Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar presided over a meeting on Saturday which was also attended by Interior Minister Brigadier (r) Ijaz Shah.

The meeting reviewed the law and order situation in the province in detail, and agreed that there must be a close liaison between Punjab and federal governments so that law and order situation could be kept under control during the opposition's march. Speaking at the meeting, Buzdar said that every possible step would be taken to safeguard the life and property of citizens. 'Action will be taken against those found breaking law without any discrimination,' he said categorically.

The chief minister directed police to discharge their duties honestly and wholeheartedly so that law and order situation could be maintained in the province, adding it was the primary responsibility of the state. 'No one will be allowed to take law into his own hands, and the rule of law will be ensured at all costs,' he said, and added, 'There is no other priority than safeguarding the life and property of citizens.'

The chief minister directed police to ensure strict checking at the entry and exit points of the province. Punjab chief secretary, inspector general of police, additional chief secretary interior, senior civil and military officials and principal secretary to the CM attended the meeting.

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