ISLAMABAD – The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday asked as to why the administration revoked the NOC (No Objection Certificate) for the PTI rally at the last moment.
Chief Justice Aamer Farooq of the Islamabad High Court was hearing the contempt of court case regarding cancellation of the NOC for PTI’s rally in Tarnol, Islamabad.
Advocate Shoaib Shaheen informed the court that permission for the rally had been granted, but the NOC was revoked on the final day.
The Chief Justice questioned the Advocate General, asking why the decision to cancel the NOC was communicated only on the last night.
The CJ said that while these individuals might be supporters of a political party, they are first and foremost human beings and citizens of Pakistan. He criticized the administration for waiting until the last moment to revoke the NOC, pointing out that the people travel from distant areas only to find out later that the rally was canceled.
He suggested that if there are security concerns, the administration should inform people in advance.
He further stated that if there is a risk to the lives of the 20,000 to 25,000 attendees, they should be informed ahead of time, as these are not insensitive individuals who would knowingly put their people in danger.
He also mentioned that if there are further developments, such as Muharram or issues related to the Finality of Prophethood, those should be communicated as well.
The Advocate General of Islamabad expressed gratitude to the PTI leadership for postponing the rally and informed the court that the district administration has granted PTI permission for the next rally.
The Advocate General assured that permission for the rally on September 8th had been granted, after which Chief Justice Aamer Farooq adjourned the hearing until September 10th.
