ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has formed a larger bench to hear a petition against the planned PTI protest in Islamabad.
The petition concerns the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s planned long march and protest scheduled for September 27.
IHC Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar constituted the larger bench on Wednesday. Justice Azam Khan and Justice Muhammad Asif are also part of the bench.
The development came after the court issued a three-page written order. The order relates to a petition filed by citizen Waqas Ahmed.
Ahmed, who is a trader, approached the court over the planned demonstration. He raised concerns about possible disruptions and financial losses.
The petitioner’s lawyer told the court that the protest could affect daily life in Islamabad. The counsel also highlighted possible difficulties for citizens and commuters.
According to the arguments, business activities in the capital could also face disruptions. The lawyer further pointed out that existing laws regulate protests and demonstrations in Islamabad.
The court considered the matter important and sensitive. It therefore decided to hear the case before a larger bench.
The IHC also issued notices to the Attorney General for Pakistan. The Attorney General has been asked to assist the court during the proceedings.
The court has summoned senior officials from all four provinces. Their chief secretaries and inspectors general of police must appear in person.
The Chief Commissioner of Islamabad has also been directed to attend the hearing. The Inspector General of Islamabad Police and Deputy Commissioner Islamabad were also summoned.
The petitioner has made several government officials and departments respondents in the case. These include the police chiefs of all four provinces and Islamabad Police.
Motorway Police and other relevant authorities have also been named as respondents.
The court will hear the matter further on Thursday. The appearance of senior officials is expected to help the bench assess the security and administrative concerns.
The PTI has planned the September 27 march in Islamabad as part of its political activities. The proposed gathering has raised concerns about traffic, public movement and business operations.
During an earlier hearing, Chief Justice Sarfraz Dogar described the matter as sensitive. He also compared the situation to a possible “constitutional crisis.”
The larger bench will now examine the legal and administrative issues linked to the planned PTI protest.
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The proceedings could provide further direction on how the proposed demonstration will be handled under existing laws.
