Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi contacted PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar to discuss in detail the current situation amid PTI's protest scheduled for November 24.
Naqvi also apprised Gohar of the situation arising after the Islamabad High Court's latest order regarding the protest, and stressed that the government was bound by the orders of the court.
During their detailed conversation, Naqvi emphasized the government's commitment to adhering to the court's directives.
"The Islamabad High Court order binds us, and we cannot allow any processions, sit-ins, or rallies,” Naqvi stated.
Naqvi also updated Gohar that a high-level Belarusian delegation is set to arrive in Islamabad on November 24, followed by the president of Belarus on November 25. The delegation will remain in the capital until November 27.
Also Read: Naqvi tells Islamabad Police to show 'no mercy' to lawbreakers amid PTI protest plans
In response, Barrister Gohar assured that he would provide a final answer after consulting with his party.
Earlier in the day, Mohsin Naqvi issued a stern directive to Islamabad Police, emphasizing that no individual involved in taking the law into their hands would be allowed to go scot-free.
During an early morning visit to the Islamabad Police Lines, Naqvi commended the efforts of the police force for their role in maintaining peace and security across the city. Key law enforcement officials, including the Islamabad police IG, chief commissioner, and DIG, were also present on the occasion.
Speaking to the officers, the minister highlighted the importance of maintaining order, especially in the lead-up to high-profile events. "A Belarusian delegation will be visiting Pakistan tomorrow, with the president’s official visit scheduled for November 25. Ensuring the safety of Islamabad during this period is paramount," Naqvi said.
On Nov 21, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) had issued a clear directive to the Islamabad administration, stressing the importance of adhering to the law regarding protests, sit-ins, and rallies. The decision came in response to a petition filed by businessman Asad Aziz, which raised concerns about disruptions to the lives and livelihoods of residents due to political gatherings announced by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on November 24.
Read also: IHC orders no protests without legal approval in Islamabad
In his written judgment, Chief Justice Aamir Farooq stressed the constitutional balance between the rights to assembly and movement, stating that these rights are subject to reasonable and proportionate restrictions. The court cited the recently enacted Peaceful Protest and Public Order Act 2024, which mandates prior approval from the District Magistrate for any public assembly in Islamabad.
The court noted that PTI had announced a rally and sit-in on November 24 but had not yet filed the requisite application for permission. It also highlighted the significance of maintaining law and order in light of the upcoming visit of the Belarusian president on November 25, which involves heightened security measures.
“While the right to protest is fundamental, it must not infringe on the rights of other citizens or disrupt critical state functions,” the judgement read.
The court directed the Interior Ministry to form a committee, including the chief commissioner of Islamabad and other relevant officials, to hold formal discussions with PTI's leadership. The aim is to address security concerns and minimize disruptions to public life.
