Mohsin Naqvi warns PTI against Islamabad march

Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi warned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf on Friday that marching on Islamabad in violation of a recent court ruling would trigger legal action, including possible contempt proceedings. The warning followed a detailed Islamabad High Court judgment on PTI's planned Sept. 27 long march.

What did Mohsin Naqvi say about PTI's Islamabad march?

Naqvi said no one can storm the federal capital under any circumstances after the Islamabad High Court's decision. He said law enforcement agencies had been directed to prevent any attempt to disrupt law and order, and urged PTI to hold protests in its own cities instead of bringing demonstrators to Islamabad.

What did the Islamabad High Court rule on PTI's march?

The IHC issued a 37-page detailed judgment ruling that political parties have a constitutional right to peaceful assembly and dissent, but cannot exercise that right in ways that violate the fundamental rights of other citizens. The court said activities affecting citizens' fundamental rights can constitute a violation of the Constitution, and that those responsible could face legal action. It held that peaceful protest cannot involve violence, weapons or the blocking of roads and other public places, and barred the use of government funds, vehicles, machinery and personnel for a political party's march toward Islamabad.

Why did Naqvi criticize PTI's timing?

Naqvi said it was inappropriate for PTI to prepare for protests and sit-ins while the country was mourning security personnel killed in a terrorist attack reported earlier Friday. He said PTI was holding funerals for martyrs on one hand while preparing for sit-ins on the other. He warned that those responsible for gathering protest groups would be held accountable if anyone lost their life, distinguishing between political rallies and an organized group moving toward the capital.

What security measures has the government prepared?

Naqvi said the government had completed preparations to deal with any attempt to disrupt the capital after consultations with all provinces and relevant institutions. He said the government would try to minimize inconvenience to Islamabad residents and would not allow the kind of unrest witnessed in the past. On the deployment of shipping containers, Naqvi said he personally opposed placing containers on roads, but that law enforcement agencies had recommended the measure as part of security arrangements.

What did Naqvi say about the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government's role?

Naqvi said the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government was responsible for ensuring implementation of the law and maintaining the situation in the province. He told PTI that if it wanted to hold a peaceful protest, it should do so in its own province. He also appealed to opposition leaders to avoid confrontation, saying it would result in losses rather than political gains. PTI has announced plans to march toward Islamabad on Sept. 27.