ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday summoned the attorney general, provincial advocate generals and inspectors general of police in a petition challenging the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) planned nationwide protests and September 27 march towards Islamabad.
IHC Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar directed the officials to appear in their personal capacities and decided to constitute a larger bench to hear the petition.
What did the petitioner’s counsel tell the IHC?
During the hearing, the petitioner’s counsel argued that the proposed protests could disrupt business and public life in Islamabad. He also referred to PTI’s previous demonstrations, claiming they resulted in casualties and financial losses.
The lawyer said the planned protests were being organised in connection with demands including the release of PTI founder Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned since August 2023.
He further argued that political protests should not be used to influence judicial proceedings, particularly in cases pending before the courts.
The counsel also referred to PTI’s November 2024 protest and presented a November 21, 2024 letter from the Ministry of Interior, alleging that government machinery had been used during the demonstration.
What did the IHC order?
The court issued notices to the attorney general, advocate generals of all four provinces and the provincial police chiefs, directing them to appear before the court.
The IHC also ordered the formation of a larger bench to hear the petition challenging the planned protests and long march.
The court adjourned the hearing until September 10.
PTI has announced a nationwide mobilisation campaign ahead of its planned September 27 march, with party leaders demanding the release and medical treatment of Imran Khan.
The latest court proceedings concern the legality and potential public-order implications of the proposed demonstrations. No final ruling has yet been issued on whether the September 27 march can proceed.