To contain, or not to contain?
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ISLAMABAD: The much despised containers are back in the capital, but it is yet to be decided whether they will be used to help provide security to facilitate the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf in its November 30 public gathering or to prevent people from attending it.
“So far, a clear policy from the government has not been given but the mood suggests that the government may not allow the public gathering at the Constitution Avenue,” a police official told Dawn.
Police said that 10 containers have been acquired from Tarnol and brought to D-Chowk. They are being placed 20 feet from the stage at the venue.
Also read: Containing the march
In the coming days, more containers will be brought to the Red Zone, officials said.
Meanwhile, the PTI leadership has approached the capital administration regarding arrangements for the upcoming public gathering.
Asad Omar, PTI Member of National Assembly told Dawn, “We are not asking for permission, we are informing them to make security arrangements.”
Also read: Govt looking to frustrate PTI’s Nov 30 show
When asked about the ‘Establishment of the High Security Zone 2014 Ordinance’, he said earlier the Pakistan Protection Ordinance was made which could be used for any purpose and was used to curb people’s rights. “It is our Constitutional right to hold a public gathering, anywhere we want,” he said, adding that any move to stop the public gathering will be challenged in court.
“The November 30 procession will be held at the same venue where PTI’s stage is set up and no other venue is acceptable,” he said.
PTI additional general secretary Saifullah Niazi said it was not right to impose Section 144 of Pakistan Penal Code in the capital because 144 is used to maintain law and order and PTI’s protests are never a threat to the maintenance of peace.
When asked how the party plans to accommodate people at Parade Avenue which has deep trenches dug on either side for the construction of the metro bus track, he said arrangements in this regard are in progress.
Published in Dawn, November 21st, 2014
