JUI-F allowed to hold power show in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Capital Territory Administration (ICT) has allowed the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) to hold a rally in the federal capital on March 25 under strict conditions.

The JUI-F has been permitted to organize its public gathering at the H-9 plot. The administration warned that the Srinagar Highway, Islamabad Expressway and Murree Road will not be blocked under any circumstances.

The administration also directed the party to follow standard operating procedure (SOPs) of the rally. No public and private properties should be harmed and the traffic flow should not be affected in any way. No one will be allowed to carry a stick or baton in the premises and the attendees will not be allowed to go outside. The administration has the right to take action in case SOPs are not followed.

According to the conditions set by the local administration, political parties organising power shows in Islamabad shall not disturb or disrupt the fundamental rights of citizens and adjoining areas. “The permission is for public rally and permission for of sit-in is not granted. Organizers are bound to ensure that the participants do not spend the night or subsequent nights there and are dispersed peacefully,” it said.

It is reiterated that Section 144 is imposed on the gathering of persons in the one kilometre radius of Red Zone and no participant should enter the area. The administration directed that the organizers will be responsible for the internal security arrangements and list of the participants shall be shared with the police.

Anti state, anti-religious, or anti ideology of Pakistan slogans or speeches will be banned, whereas the effigy/flag of any political or religious party shall not be burnt. Moreover, weapons, firearms of any kind shall not be taken at, near the venue of the power shows.

CCTV cameras shall be installed at the venue by the organizers and the location of the cameras and the control room shall be intimated to the ICT Administration. The main stage and the venue shall be swept by the Bomb Disposal Squad and ICT Police. The organizers shall ensure peaceful dispersal of the crowd at the end of public gatherings.