The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday instructed the deputy commissioner (DC) of Lahore to make a final decision by 5 PM regarding Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) request to hold a rally at Minar-e-Pakistan on February 8.
Justice Farooq Haider, who presided over the hearing, criticized the authorities for delaying the decision, pointing out that PTI had submitted its request on January 29.
The court raised concerns about the practicality of rally preparations if approval was granted at the last minute.
During the hearing, Punjab’s chief secretary appeared in court and assured compliance with the court’s directive.
The Lahore DC submitted a report explaining the delay, citing logistical challenges, including a tri-nation series match. He mentioned that discussions were still ongoing regarding the rally’s approval.
The court questioned officials about the prolonged delay in reaching a decision.
“If the meeting is set for tomorrow and the request is denied, what alternatives will PTI have? If approval is given, how will preparations be managed in just one day?” Justice Haider remarked.
PTI leaders argue that postponing or rejecting public gatherings limits their right to political expression.
