Islamabad, July 25: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has overturned the deputy commissioner of Islamabad’s order that denied permission for the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to hold a rally in the capital on July 6. Chief Justice Aamer Farooq directed the authorities to reconsider PTI’s request for a No-Objection Certificate (NOC), treating the application as pending since the date for the rally has already passed.
The initial rejection by the deputy commissioner was based on concerns over law and order due to Muharram. However, the IHC emphasized the importance of balancing public order with the constitutional rights of citizens to assemble, as guaranteed under Article 16 of the Constitution. The court reminded executive authorities, including the Minister for Interior, the Interior Secretary, the Chief Commissioner, the Inspector General of Police, and the Deputy Commissioner, of their duty to safeguard these fundamental rights. It also held these officials accountable for any hardships or damages resulting from their decisions, urging compliance with regulations and restrictions.
Glass Wall Removed from Makeshift Courtroom in Adiala Jail
In a separate case, the IHC was informed that a glass barrier erected in the makeshift courtroom inside Adiala Jail has been removed. This courtroom has been the venue for trials involving former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Justice Saman Rafat Imtiaz inquired about the necessity of this removal, and the court was assured by Assistant Attorney Generals (AAG) Rana Imran Farooq and Raja Zamirud Din Ahmed, along with the state counsel, that the decision was made after careful consideration of security concerns.
The court has requested a statement confirming this action, to be signed by the concerned jail authorities, by the next hearing date, which will be scheduled after the summer vacation.
Petition Regarding Visitation Rights to Imran Khan Contested
Additionally, the Punjab government and the deputy superintendent of Adiala Jail have requested the IHC to dismiss a petition filed by Intizar Hussain Panjuta. The petition alleges non-cooperation by jail authorities, making it difficult for Panjuta to visit former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The state’s response, filed through Additional Advocate General Punjab Sanaullah Zahid, argued that Panjuta’s claims lack merit and that the regulation of visitation and parking arrangements falls within the lawful discretion of jail authorities. The response emphasized that the court should dismiss the petition as it does not involve the denial of any legal right.
