ISLAMABAD: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has warned that no one will be allowed to “storm” the federal capital following the Islamabad High Court’s (IHC) detailed ruling on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) planned long march.
Speaking at a press conference, Naqvi said any violation of the court’s decision would result in legal action, including the filing of a contempt of court petition against those responsible.
The interior minister also referred to a terrorist incident that took place earlier in the day, saying it was inappropriate to prepare for sit-ins while the funerals of those killed in the attack were being held.
He said law enforcement agencies had been instructed to take all possible measures to prevent any attempt to disrupt law and order.
“Now it cannot be the case that they open fire and you simply remain silent,” Naqvi said, while warning those planning to create disorder.
Naqvi urged those wishing to protest to hold demonstrations in their respective areas and cities. He said there was a distinction between political rallies and marches involving large groups seeking to force their way into the capital.
He warned that if even a single life was lost during such an activity, those who mobilised the gathering would be held responsible.
Addressing opposition leaders, Naqvi said there would be no benefit from confrontation and that such a situation would only result in losses. He said the government would not allow a repeat of the lawlessness witnessed in the past and would seek to minimise inconvenience to Islamabad’s residents.
The interior minister said preparations had been completed to deal with any potential disruption following consultations with all provincial governments.
He also urged PTI to conduct an internal survey, claiming that many members of the party may not know the reason for their participation in the planned march.
Naqvi said the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government was responsible for ensuring implementation of the law and maintaining the situation in its province. He urged those wishing to protest to do so peacefully and within their own province.
Regarding the deployment of containers in Islamabad, Naqvi said he was personally opposed to the practice. However, he added that law enforcement agencies sometimes require containers to be placed as part of security arrangements.
The PTI has announced plans to hold a long march towards Islamabad on September 27.
Meanwhile, the Islamabad High Court issued its 37-page detailed judgment on a petition challenging the planned PTI march.
According to the detailed ruling, any activity that infringes upon fundamental rights would be considered a violation of the Constitution. The court also stated that violating the fundamental rights of Islamabad’s residents would constitute a constitutional violation, and those responsible could face action in accordance with the law.
