IHC decided to form larger bench to hear plea against PTI's Sept 27 protest

The petitioner’s lawyer was a businessman operating in Islamabad and that the proposed PTI protest could affect him and other citizens as well as business activities in the capital. The petition has also raised concerns about disruption to routine life, traffic and businesses in Islamabad.

The lawyer argued that PTI’s plan to bring the protest to Islamabad could create difficulties for citizens and business communities. He presented various statements by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister and newspaper clippings before the court.

He maintained that several matters concerning the relevant individuals were already pending before the courts and should be decided. He argued that allowing street protests on the basis of pending cases could encourage parties in other cases across the country to adopt a similar course.

Referring to the 2024 protests, the petitioner’s counsel claimed that attempts had been made to enter Islamabad and that three Rangers personnel were killed during the episode. He also cited media reports regarding financial losses allegedly caused by the protests.

The lawyer argued that putting pressure on state institutions and courts through protests should not be acceptable. Legal provisions concerning protests in Islamabad were also presented before the court. He maintained that under the Constitution and law, the government has the authority to impose appropriate restrictions on protests to maintain law and order.

In response to a question from the court, the lawyer said there was a possibility of government machinery being used in connection with the planned protest. He also presented a November 21, 2024 letter from the Ministry of Interior before the court.

The lawyer referred to the £190 million case and said the relevant party had been given opportunities to present arguments in the appeal, but was allegedly attempting to exert pressure through protests instead of pursuing legal remedies.

In view of the sensitivity of the matter, the court decided to constitute a larger bench and issued a notice to the Attorney General for Pakistan. The inspectors general of police and advocate generals of all four provinces were also summoned in their personal capacity.

The court adjourned further proceedings until September 10. PTI has maintained that its September 27 mobilisation is intended as a peaceful nationwide protest for the supremacy of the Constitution, rule of law and the release of party founder Imran Khan.

The party has said the demonstration will not be confined to Islamabad, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi is expected to lead the march towards the capital.