LAHORE: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has filed a petition in the Lahore High Court (LHC) seeking permission to hold a public gathering at Minar-e-Pakistan on March 22.
The plea, submitted by PTI Punjab Vice President Akmal Khan Bari, names key officials—including the Punjab Chief Secretary, Inspector General of Police (IGP), DIG, and Lahore Deputy Commissioner (DC)—as respondents. It argues that the Lahore DC has not responded to PTI’s request for a power show at the historic venue.
Petition Highlights
- The PTI links the gathering to the Lahore Resolution (passed on March 23, 1940), citing its right to peaceful assembly under Article 4 of the Constitution.
- It claims that the authorities are obligated to allow and facilitate such political gatherings.
- The petition condemns political victimization and urges the court to prevent harassment of PTI leaders and workers.
- It requests permission to hold the rally from 8 PM to 12 AM on March 22.
Backdrop & Security Concerns
The plea comes amid heightened security alerts in Punjab following a surge in terrorism incidents.
Previously, the Lahore administration denied PTI permission to hold a rally at Minar-e-Pakistan in February, citing security concerns. As a result, PTI shifted its rally to Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on February 8, marking the one-year anniversary of the 2023 general elections, which the party alleges were rigged.
Challenges for PTI’s Public Gatherings
- The Swabi rally witnessed a low turnout, with only 5,000–6,000 attendees, as many workers could not be mobilized.
- Reports suggest lack of funds affected attendance, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur reportedly declining additional financial support for rally arrangements.
PTI’s Future Political Strategy
- Following failed negotiations with the government, PTI has signaled a return to political agitation.
- The party is reaching out to opposition forces to organize anti-government protests after Eid ul Fitr.
- PTI recently participated in the grand opposition alliance conference in Islamabad, attended by various political leaders, journalists, and civil society members.
With the LHC’s decision pending, the PTI’s ability to hold large-scale rallies in Punjab remains uncertain amid political and security challenges.
