KARACHI: The Sindh government has issued a stern warning to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) against holding a rally at an unauthorized location, setting the stage for a potential confrontation.
Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar stated that no permission would be granted for any activity that challenges the government’s writ. While PTI was officially granted a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) to hold a rally in Bagh Jinnah, the party has instead announced plans to gather at the main gate of Mazar-e-Quaid.
Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Memon clarified that the permission for Bagh Jinnah came with strict conditions. These include a ban on inflammatory speeches, material against state institutions, and a requirement for the organizers to manage traffic and conclude the event on time. He emphasized that the district administration holds the authority to cancel the permission for security reasons.
PTI leader Raja Azhar explained the venue change, citing a delay in receiving the formal permission, which he claimed left insufficient time to make arrangements at Bagh Jinnah.
Criticizing the move, Provincial Minister for Local Government Nasir Shah stated that talking about holding a rally on a main road was “not appropriate behaviour,” as it would cause public inconvenience. He insisted that if PTI wishes to hold a rally, it must use the designated venue of Bagh Jinnah.
The situation remains tense as the announced rally time approaches, with the government vowing “strict action” if PTI proceeds outside the permitted area
