PTI postpones Islamabad power show

ISLAMABAD: In a surprise move, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Saturday cancelled its rally in Islamabad and filed a petition with the Islamabad High Court (IHC) seeking contempt of court proceedings against officials who revoked the no-objection certificate (NOC) for the jalsa.

The PTI had planned to hold the rally in the Tarnol area on the outskirts of the capital city, but the Islamabad administration initially denied permission, citing security concerns and complaints from local residents.

However, on June 26, IHC Justice Babar Sattar directed the party and the administration to resolve the issue amicably, leading to the deputy commissioner granting permission for the rally.

In a sudden turnaround, Islamabad Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa suspended the NOC on July 5, citing the start of the month of Muharram and security concerns.

According to a letter, police recovered a large cache of weapons and ammunition on Wednesday.

The PTI has accused the authorities of contempt of court and is seeking legal action against those responsible for suspending the NOC.

The party claimed the move is a violation of the IHC’s order and is seeking permission to proceed with the rally.

“The safety and security of the public was their top priority,” the administration said after the meeting.

On Thursday, the district administration granted permission to Imran Khan-led party for a political rally in Turnol, Islamabad.

According to the party’s social media platforms, the PTI leadership was preparing for the rally and calling upon its supporters to turn up in big numbers for the public gathering.

“Come out for Haqeeqi Azadi tomorrow and for Imran Khan’s release,” PTI leader Shoaib Shaheen said in a video statement shared by the PTI on social media.

He expressed hope that people from all over the country will turn out in big numbers.