The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has directed the Interior Ministry to take immediate action to restore normalcy in the capital amid the ongoing protests by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
During a hearing on Saturday, Chief Justice Aamer Farooq emphasized the need to maintain balance between the protesters' rights and public safety, while also ensuring the city's normal functioning ahead of significant foreign visits.
The hearing was held on traders' plea to stop the PTI protests in Islamabad. Addressing Interior Secretary Khurram Ali Agha, who appeared in court, Chief Justice Farooq highlighted the impact of the protests, stating that the current situation in the city resembled a "state of war," with roads blocked by containers and communication services disrupted.
"You have a very difficult task, but you hold a very important position," said Justice Farooq, urging the Interior Ministry to manage the protests while ensuring the safety of both demonstrators and the general public. He pointed out that although protest is a fundamental right, it must not endanger the lives of others.
Also Read: Critical situation: PTI protest paralyses Islamabad amid police clashes
Justice Farooq further expressed concern over the image the protests would portray to foreign delegations, particularly with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) conference scheduled to take place in Pakistan in the coming days. "What will foreign delegations think when they see a city full of containers?" he asked. He urged the authorities to provide PTI protesters with a designated area to demonstrate without disrupting public life.
Interior Secretary Khurram Agha informed the court that several high-profile foreign delegations, including from Saudi Arabia and Malaysia, were expected in the country soon, adding that the government was under pressure to maintain law and order for these important events.
Also Read: Punjab also deploys army for SCO meeting, law and order
The court emphasized the government's responsibility to ensure the equal rights of all citizens, while directing the Interior Ministry to implement Section 144 of the Pakistan Penal Code, which prohibits public gatherings in the capital, and clear the city of unnecessary roadblocks.
Justice Farooq also criticized the current state of curfew-like conditions in Islamabad, with mobile services shut down, stating that citizens should be able to contact each other in emergencies.
During the proceedings, the Interior Secretary acknowledged that efforts to reach a peaceful resolution had been made but faced resistance from the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Ali Amin Gandapur, who was leading a convoy of government machinery toward the capital. The court was told that several government vehicles had been damaged or burnt during the unrest.
The IHC directed the Interior Ministry to take all necessary steps to bring Islamabad back to normal and avoid any incidents that could harm Pakistan’s reputation ahead of the important SCO meeting.
The hearing will continue as the court monitors the situation closely.
