Govt tells Imran it will secure life, property of citizens

ISLAMABAD: In a letter delivered through the district magistrate Islamabad, law enforcement authorities told the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan that the government will secure the lives, properties and fundamental rights of the people by all means.

The letter said: "It has been brought to the notice of undersigned that the political party under your command is planning to lock down and block entry and exits and the movements inside the Islamabad Capital Territory. A number of residents of Islamabad approached the honorable Islamabad High Court by way of Constitution Petitions for protection of their fundamental rights. They feel threatened of unlawful assemblies and anticipated lock down most likely to result disturbance of normal life of residents of Federal Capital. Their concerns are more particularly reflected in their pleadings and the consequential orders passed by the honorable High Court.

"The government is cognisant and alert to ensure their fundamental rights but not limited to the right to security of citizens and their assets, the right of freedom of movement, the right of freedom of trade, business or profession, the right to education and health, the right to enjoy quality life enjoying basic amenities of the including civic services. The lock down is not permissible inasmuch as it shall, in all probability, deprive the citizens of their fundamental rights. The planned activity is also a serious threat to public peace and tranquility. Therefore, necessary restrictions have been imposed in accordance with law in terms of Section 144 CrPC.

“The State respects the fundamental rights of association, speech and expression subject to reasonable restrictions imposed by law. To facilitate the lawful political gathering and protests. If any, a designated place duly notified by the Capital Development Authority as "Democracy and Speech Corner" vide Notification No CDA, SCB/ 711/ 2015/ 3926 dated November 6, 2015 is available as sanctified by the orders of the honorable High Court.

“Needless to reiterate that ensuring and safeguarding public life and property is obligatory not only on the administration but also on all political parties and law abiding citizens. Hence, any violation of law or threat to the peace and tranquility in Islamabad will not be allowed," the letter concluded.

Meanwhile, the government has decided not to arrest Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad, head of Awami Muslim League, for some political reasons. The political authorities, however, are thinking to allow movement of Imran Khan and other leadership of PTI till 1st November, well-placed sources said and added, however, the decision has not yet been finalised.