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Islamabad High Court Reserves Decision on PTI's Protest Petition
Islamabad High Court reserves decision on PTI's petition to protest. District administration cites safety concerns.
ND
by News Desk
2024-07-26
Islamabad High Court Reserves Decision on PTI's Protest Petition

The Islamabad High Court has reserved its decision on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) petition seeking permission to hold a protest in the capital.

 

Court's Directive and District Administration's Response

In a session held today, the High Court directed the district administration to consult with PTI within two hours and report back by 12:30 PM. However, the public prosecutor indicated that the district administration had already rejected all requests for protests within Islamabad, citing citizen safety concerns.

 

"No one can get any permission at this time for the safety of the citizens," stated the public prosecutor, justifying the administration's stance.

 

Judicial and Government Positions

Justice Thaman Rifat Imtiaz questioned the public prosecutor's stance, suggesting the creation of a law to limit gatherings if safety is a concern. He also addressed the Advocate General, challenging the apparent blanket refusal to grant PTI permission to protest.

 

"Justice Thaman Rifat Imtiaz suggested that if safety is a concern, specific laws should be enacted to control gatherings."

 

PTI's Position and Legal Arguments

PTI's lawyer, Shoaib Shaheen, argued for an alternative protest location, such as F9 Park, referencing a Supreme Court decision against blocking roads. Shaheen emphasized the need for the government to facilitate peaceful assembly.

 

"The government can't block the roads; the Supreme Court has decided," asserted Shaheen.

 

Concerns About Security and Order

Justice Thaman Rifat Imtiaz highlighted the government's responsibility to manage protests without compromising public order. He emphasized the need for the government to appear competent in maintaining control.

 

"The court said that the government should be trusted to control the situation and avoid appearing incompetent."

 

Government's Stand

Advocate General Islamabad maintained that allowing the protest would lead to chaos, indicating the government's stance against granting permission due to potential security risks. The Advocate General also expressed concerns about managing prolonged protests.

 

"If the court wants to make an order, then do it, we cannot allow it," stated the government lawyer, reiterating the administration's position.

 

Decision Pending

After hearing the arguments from both sides, the Islamabad High Court reserved its decision on PTI's petition. The ruling is anticipated to have significant implications for the right to protest and the government's approach to handling public demonstrations.

 
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