No one would be allowed to hold protest in Islamabad, warns Naqvi

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi ruling out granting permission for any rallies in Islamabad said those who will break the law will be dealt with an iron hand.

Talking to reporters here on Friday, the Interior Minister emphasized that all actions against the protesters will fully comply with the directives of the Islamabad High Court.

Naqvi denying having any connection with Adiala Jail warned that protestors would face significant challenges. “If any damage occurs, the attackers will be held responsible,” he added.

He also pointed out that law and order in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is the provincial government’s responsibility. “Ask them whether their focus should be on maintaining peace or planning an attack,” Naqvi remarked.

Addressing federal responsibilities, he clarified that after the 18th Amendment, ensuring law and order is not the federal government’s job.

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He also expressed his opposition to shutting down roads, businesses, or mobile services, stating, “I personally do not support such measures.”

Naqvi urged Khyber Pakhtunkhwa authorities to prioritize their responsibilities. “Their focus should be clear. If there are casualties, those storming the area will be held accountable,” he reiterated.

On Thursday the Islamabad High Court (IHC) had directed the government to form a committee to hold talks with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership to sort out the issue related to the PTI’s planned protest rally the capital on November 24.

IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq issued the written order, stating that it would be appropriate for the government to form the committee under the supervision of the interior minister or another senior official to initiate talks with PTI leadership, keeping in view the upcoming visit of the Belarusian president.

The court ruled that “if negotiations fail, the interior minister must ensure to maintain the law and order in Islamabad in accordance with the law.”