Islamabad: The Islamabad High Court has ruled that no political party or public office holder has the lawful right to obstruct free movement of citizens or block roads in the Federal Capital.
According to Radio Pakistan, a larger bench, headed by Chief Justice Islamabad High Court, announced the verdict while disposing of a plea against the PTI's planned long march and protest in the Federal Capital. The bench, led by Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar and including Justice Muhammad Azam Khan and Justice Muhammad Asif, reviewed the plea and delivered the judgment.
The Court directed all provincial Chief Ministers to ensure that no government resources and machinery are used during a protest by any political party. Furthermore, it emphasized that no government official should comply with orders forcing participation in a protest or rally. Any official facing such pressure is advised to immediately inform the Chief Secretary, Chief Commissioner, or Inspector General of Police.
In its directives, the Court also ordered the Chief Secretaries, Chief Commissioner Islamabad, and Inspector General of Police to establish a helpline promptly to address such issues and assist officials in case of undue pressure to participate in protests.