Long March: SC directs local authorities to provide alternate place for PTI gathering

The Supreme Court ordered the Islamabad district authorities on Wednesday to provide an alternate place for the PTI to hold its Azadi March by 2:30 pm and chalk out a traffic plan for the protestors so they can reach it.

A three-member bench headed by Justice Ahsan, and consisting of Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Sayyed Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi, issued the directives while hearing the plea filed by Islamabad High Court Bar Association (IHCBA) President Mohammad Shoaib Shaheen yesterday, demanding the removal of blockades in the capital before of the PTI’s march.

“Let them demonstrate and then go home,” Justice Ahsan stated.

“We expect the government to lift the roadblocks.” The court ordered the Home Secretary and the police to review their policies regarding road closures.

Justice Ahsan declared that the court would also seek assurance from the PTI that the demonstration would be peaceful.

The property would not be damaged, nor would there be torture or violence.

Earlier today, the court ordered the Home Secretary, the Chief Commissioner of Islamabad, the Assistant Commissioner, the Inspector General of Police, and the Attorney General to appear before the court at noon.

The top court also issued notices to provincial governments.

When the hearing resumed afternoon, Justice Ahsan stated that the officials, as well as the attorney general, should find a solution.

He also ordered PTI’s lawyer, Faisal Chaudhry, to “sit on the negotiating table” with administrative officials and gave him time until 2:30 p.m. to obtain instructions from the party leadership in this respect.

If the PTI leaders are afraid of being arrested, they should give us a list. We will protect those fearful of arrest,” said Justice Ahsan.

He went on to say that political parties have their interests, but they are secondary to the country and the people.