In Karachi, the Tehreek-e-Insaf party faced a setback when their request to hold a rally in Bagh Jinnah on April 28 was denied.
The Sindh High Court, led by Chief Justice Aqeel Ahmad Abbasi, questioned the denial and directed the administration to provide a valid reason.
The court received a report from the Deputy Commissioner of the Eastern District, stating that permission was denied based on a police report citing security concerns due to recent incidents of terrorism in the city. Additional Advocate General Rao Saifullah highlighted the ongoing security threats, including recent explosions in Malir.
Chief Justice Abbasi expressed dissatisfaction, questioning why the authorities didn’t allow the rally and suggesting that such denials may lead to adverse consequences. He also noted that recent events, including a rally by the Central Muslim League, had taken place without hindrance.
The Chief Justice urged both the administration and the PTI to exercise caution, emphasizing the potential consequences of any untoward incidents. He adjourned the hearing until May 6.
Following the hearing, PTI Sindh President Haleem Adil Shaikh criticized the administration for delaying the rally, asserting the party’s constitutional right to hold such gatherings. He accused the authorities of failing to provide security despite being responsible for it.
Shaikh criticized the administration’s shifting justifications for denying permission, from citing the sanctity of Mazar Quaid to alleging security threats. He accused officials of neglecting their duties and emphasized the judiciary’s role in holding them accountable.
In summary, the denial of permission for PTI’s rally in Karachi sparked controversy, with the party and the judiciary questioning the administration’s actions and motivations.