On Wednesday, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) granted permission to the PTI to organize a political rally in the federal capital on April 6. Chief Justice Aamer Farooq presided over the hearing of PTI’s plea challenging the denial of permission by law enforcement agencies due to security concerns.
“The right to assemble cannot be denied,” remarked the judge, directing the federal capital’s administration to outline specific conditions for allowing the rally.
PTI counsel Sher Afzal Marwat expressed the party’s intention to hold a public gathering on April 6, to which Justice Farooq cautioned the party to ensure there is no disturbance.
The state counsel cited security concerns and past rule violations by PTI as reasons for denying permission. However, the IHC chief justice emphasized that while setting conditions is normal, they should align with standard terms of reference (TORs).
“We are prepared to accept all conditions,” assured the PTI counsel.
During the hearing, the public prosecutor mentioned a recent terrorist incident, but the chief justice stressed the importance of continuing life without succumbing to fear, emphasizing the need to combat terrorism.
Rejecting the state counsel’s request for time to seek instructions, Justice Farooq asserted his authority to make decisions without further delay.
Previously, the IHC issued notices to respondents regarding a PTI plea seeking permission for a rally on March 30. The court adjourned the hearing to consider available options.
Earlier, the Islamabad Deputy Commissioner denied PTI permission for a rally on March 30, citing concerns about law and order and previous rule violations by the party. The IHC had instructed the DC to decide on the matter and submit a report.
The PTI regional president had requested permission for a public gathering on either March 23 or March 30, addressing various government officials in the application.