No political party has authority to block roads: IHC on plea against PTI's protest

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has disposed of a petition related to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)’s planned September 27 protest in Islamabad, issuing directions to the relevant authorities.

A citizen, Waqas Ahmed, had challenged the planned move on the grounds that the protest could disrupt routine life, traffic and business activities in the federal capital.

As per details, a larger bench headed by Chief Justice Sarfraz Dogar announced its decision on the petition concerning PTI’s September 27 protest in Islamabad.

The court ruled that no political party or public office holder has the authority to block roads in Islamabad.

It directed provincial chief ministers to ensure that government machinery is not used for political party protests and that no government employee is forced to participate in any protest.

The Islamabad High Court observed that no political party or leader has a legal right to occupy roads, highways or other public places. It further held that no political party or leader has the right to obstruct citizens’ freedom of movement.

The court directed provincial governments to ensure that public resources are not used for marches, processions or rallies.

Read more: PTI leaders, founder’s sisters booked in Adiala Jail protest case

Chief ministers were instructed to ensure that government funds or officials are not used for protests and that official vehicles, machinery or other government equipment are not deployed for marches, processions or rallies.

The court ordered the Islamabad administration and the Ministry of Interior to ensure protection of citizens’ constitutional rights.

It also directed chief secretaries and inspectors general of police (IGPs) to ensure implementation of the court’s directions. Further instructions were issued to the Federal Secretary for Interior, Islamabad Chief Commissioner and Inspector General of Police.