The Lahore High Court (LHC) has rejected Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) petition seeking approval for a public gathering at Minar-e-Pakistan on March 22.
Justice Farooq Haider presided over the hearing, upholding the registrar’s objection and directing PTI to first approach the government’s redressal committee before seeking judicial intervention. The court ruled that if the committee fails to make a decision, the party may then file a petition.
PTI leader Akmal Khan Bari, who submitted the petition, stated that the party had formally sought permission from authorities but received no response. PTI’s legal counsel argued that involving the redressal committee would be ineffective.
However, the court maintained that due legal procedures must be followed before approaching the judiciary. The petition contended that PTI intends to hold a rally in accordance with the law but has been denied permission for a peaceful gathering.
PTI urged the court to grant approval for the rally, emphasizing its constitutional right to peaceful assembly. The petition also highlighted that despite adhering to all legal requirements, the party’s request was denied, prompting them to seek judicial intervention.
Previously, Lahore’s district administration had refused PTI’s request to hold a rally at Minar-e-Pakistan on February 8. The party had initially planned the gathering to mark the first anniversary of the previous general elections, which it claims were heavily rigged.
