ISLAMABAD: PTI on Friday submitted a written request in the office of deputy commissioner Islamabad for holding a public gathering on Sunday.

The request, which was submitted by PTI Islamabad President Raja Khurram Nawaz, says the PTI wants to hold a public gathering at Parade Ground Islamabad, the chief guest at which will be PTI Chief Imran Khan.

“It is therefore requested to your good self to kindly grant permission for this jalsa and pass necessary orders for appropriate action,” it says.

An official of the capital administration said it is likely permission will be granted for holding the public gathering. He said necessary steps will be taken and the standard operating procedure will be followed. The organisers of the gathering will be asked to submit affidavits for consideration and further process, including the issuance of a no-objection certificate.

The PT is holding the rally as thanksgiving for the disqualification of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, the official said.

He added that the incident is very recent and that PML-N supporters are still emotional. “A minor mistake may lead to a law and order situation,” he said.

Therefore, before permission is granted, the concerned authorities will be consulted including the police’s Special Branch, he explained.

Published in Dawn, July 29th, 2017