PTI Independence Day Rally Banned at Minar-e-Pakistan by LHC, Alternative Venue to be Proposed by DC Lahore. Justice Ali Baqar Najafi of the Lahore High Court (LHC) has instructed Lahore Deputy Commissioner Rafia Haider to propose an alternative venue after Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) was refused permission to hold a public gathering at Minar-e-Pakistan on August 14, 2024 Independence Day.
During the hearing, the Deputy Commissioner appeared before the court, where the law officer argued that strict security arrangements for Imam Hussain’s Chehlum on August 25-26, 2025 raised concerns about the PTI event. The DC stated that due to these security issues, the PTI rally at Minar-e-Pakistan could not be allowed. However, she mentioned that if PTI submits an application for a date between August 27 and September 2, 2024 the matter could be reconsidered, and an alternative venue would be suggested.
Earlier, the petitioner’s lawyer informed the court that a new application for the public gathering had been submitted to the Deputy Commissioner’s office, but no response had been received. The law officer responded that the application had been forwarded to law enforcement agencies for review.
Justice Ali Baqar Najafi questioned the government’s policy on political activities during Independence Day, suggesting a potential double standard in treating PTI compared to other political parties. He noted that Jamaat-e-Islami had held protests without permission and inquired about the government’s actions against them. The law officer admitted he was unsure but assured that appropriate measures would have been taken.
Justice Ali Baqar Najafi suggested that if the government perceives a security risk, PTI could submit an affidavit to address concerns. However, if permission is still denied, the matter would be handled according to the law.
The law officer also highlighted the increased risk of terrorism during political events, but the petitioner’s lawyer offered to change the event’s venue and date. The law officer agreed to consult with relevant authorities and promised an update by August, 2024.
