All’s well that ends well: PTI protest concludes peacefully

Traders, locals breathe sigh of relief, go about business as usual

ISLAMABAD: The federal capital witnessed its first ever large Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf gathering without the blockage of streets, roads or the disruption of markets.

In compliance with IHC orders, Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) issued a no objection certificate to PTI to hold a public gathering at the Democracy Park and Speech Corner near the Faizabad flyover.  Locals and the business community of Islamabad largely welcomed the decision. In the past Aabpara, D-Chowk, Jinnah Avenue and the National Press Club (NPC) were the preferred sites to hold a protest. However, the demonstration would disrupt routine activity in Aabpara and the Blue Area, both business hubs of the capital.

Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industries (ICCI) President Khalid Malik told The Express Tribune that the business community felt the democracy park was a suitable location for rallies and sit-ins.

“We appreciate the government and ICT for designating a place for the protest. It should be ensured that this location is used for protests and sit-ins instead of chowks,” said All Pakistan Tajar Ittehad President Kashif Ahmed.

He pointed out that it was a longstanding demand of businessmen that authorities designate an area for protesters to vent their anger against government policies or other issues.

Former Aabpara Market Traders’ Association president Ajmal Baloch suggested the passing of a bill in the National Assembly to ensure protests are held at prescribed locations not only in Islamabad, but every big city of the country.

“It would be a big service for residents of the cities,” he pointed out. Baloch also thanked the government and ICT for assigning a location and saving traders from huge losses.

Irshad Ali, a resident of Sector G-3, said that holding a peaceful protest was the democratic right of the people.  He said that in “civilised cities”, open places were earmarked for citizens to hold peaceful protests and demonstrations.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 3^rd, 2016.