PTI faces stringent terms for Islamabad rally amid tight security measures

Islamabad : Law enforcement agencies and the Islamabad administration have imposed strict conditions on Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) ahead of their public gathering in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT). The measures, aimed at ensuring security and maintaining public order, include designated routes for participants attending the event.

Before granting PTI permission for the rally, authorities laid out a comprehensive set of regulations that the party must strictly follow. These conditions include restrictions on the size and duration of the gathering, as well as specific locations where participants are allowed to assemble.

In addition to safety protocols, PTI supporters must adhere to designated routes to avoid disrupting traffic and causing public inconvenience. Security personnel will be stationed along these routes to manage attendee movement and ensure peace during the event.

The Islamabad administration emphasized that any violation of the agreed-upon conditions could result in legal consequences, including the immediate cancellation of the rally. They also urged PTI leaders and participants to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies to ensure the smooth execution of the event.

These actions come amid heightened security concerns in the capital, as authorities are keen to prevent any incidents of unrest during the public gathering. The enforcement of these regulations demonstrates a commitment to maintaining order while allowing political activities to take place within the bounds of the law.

Participants from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab traveling via the motorway M1 can use the AWT Interchange and Paswal Road to reach the venue. Those from Wah Cantt should use the Brahma Jhang Bahtar Interchange and follow the same route via the AWT Interchange. Meanwhile, participants from Punjab’s G.T. Road, south of Gujar Khan, will take Chakbeli Road to reach the Chakri Interchange on M2, continuing to the AWT Interchange.

Islamabad residents can only access the venue through Margalla Avenue/Iran Avenue, while Rawalpindi residents must use Dhamial Road and Girja Road to reach the Thalian and Chakri Interchanges, respectively. People from Murree should follow Shahpur/Phulgaran Road to Khanna Pul, then take Chakbeli Road and proceed via the Chakri Interchange.

The terms and conditions include that the gathering must not disrupt the fundamental rights of citizens, including freedom of movement, trade, business, and education. The rally must start at 4:00 p.m. and conclude by 7:00 p.m. on September 8, 2024, with organisers ensuring prompt dispersal. No participant may wield any weapons, including batons, or engage in violence. Organizers will be held responsible for any such incidents. The rally is permitted as a public gathering, not a sit-in. Participants are not allowed to remain at the venue overnight. Organisers are responsible for internal security and must share a list of participants with local police in advance. The rally must respect public and private property, and organizers will be liable for any damage. Anti-state, anti-religious, or anti-Pakistan ideology slogans or speeches are prohibited, and no effigies or flags of political or religious parties may be burned. Weapons or firearms of any kind are strictly prohibited at or near the venue. The use of speakers must comply with the West Pakistan Amplifier Ordinance of 1965, with religious sensitivities observed. Traffic and parking plans from the ICT Police must be adhered to, and participants must cooperate with security checks. Walk-through gates will be installed at the venue entrances, and participants will only be allowed in after thorough security checks. The organisers must install CCTV cameras and coordinate their locations with the ICT administration. The main stage and venue must be swept for explosives by the Bomb Disposal Squad and ICT Police. In case of any violation of these conditions, legal proceedings will follow, and the NOC will be automatically revoked.

The authorities have taken these measures to ensure a peaceful and secure gathering, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public order while facilitating political expression. The PTI leadership has been urged to cooperate with law enforcement to avoid any disruptions or security issues during the event.