IHC Chief Justice reminds govt of balancing public order with citizens’ rights

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) summoned the Home Secretary in his personal capacity today to address concerns raised by a petition seeking to halt a planned protest by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in the capital.

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During the hearing, IHC Chief Justice Aamir Farooq stressed the need to balance citizens’ rights with public order, as the demonstration could disrupt daily life in the city. “Every citizen has rights,” the Chief Justice asserted, reminding that the government must ensure law and order without infringing on public freedoms.

The IHC noted that over 150,000 employees commute daily in the capital, and students are in the midst of exams. “I myself have passed through the containers,” Chief Justice Farooq said.

In addition, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conference is scheduled to be held in Islamabad this Saturday, further complicating the situation. The IHC Chief Justice directed the Advocate General Islamabad to coordinate with the Interior Secretary and ensure a responsible police officer appears in court.

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He also emphasised that while the court cannot directly issue orders to PTI, it can instruct government agencies to protect citizens’ rights. “Mobile signals are shut down for two days. What will happen if someone has an emergency in such circumstances?” the Chief Justice asked.