The Islamabad High Court decided to constitute a larger bench to hear a petition challenging Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s planned protest and long march in Islamabad scheduled for September 27, according to court proceedings reported by Dunya News. IHC Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar heard the petition filed by citizen Waqas Ahmed, which cites potential disruptions to routine life, traffic, and business activities in the capital.
IHC Summons Government Officials and Forms Larger Bench
According to Dunya News, the Islamabad High Court issued notices to the Attorney General for Pakistan and summoned the inspectors general of police, chief secretaries, and advocate generals of all four provinces in their personal capacity. The court also directed the chief commissioner of Islamabad, the deputy commissioner of Islamabad, and the Islamabad IGP to appear for the hearings. The case proceedings were subsequently adjourned until September 10.
During the hearing, the petitioner’s counsel argued that the proposed demonstration could create severe difficulties for residents and the business community. The lawyer presented newspaper clippings and statements from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi to support the filing. The petitioner’s counsel termed the proposed protest completely illegal and expressed concern over potential security risks, referencing earlier demonstrations in 2024.
Legal Arguments and Security Concerns Raised in Court
The petitioner’s legal team referenced previous clashes and unrest, claiming that three Rangers personnel were killed during prior attempts to enter Islamabad, and cited media reports estimating financial losses of around Rs240 million from earlier protests, as reported by Dunya News. The counsel maintained that the government holds the constitutional and legal authority to impose restrictions on public gatherings to maintain law and order.
Furthermore, the lawyer pointed to the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the £190 million case, arguing that the party should pursue legal remedies through the courts rather than attempting to exert pressure through street agitation. Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar characterized the matter as sensitive, comparing the unfolding situation to a constitutional crisis.
PTI Stance on the September 27 Mobilization
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf maintains that the September 27 mobilization is a peaceful nationwide demonstration organized to demand the supremacy of the Constitution, the rule of law, and the release of party founder Imran Khan. Party leadership stated that the protests will not be restricted solely to Islamabad, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi anticipated to lead supporters toward the capital.
Related reading