LHC permits PPP to hold rally at Liaquat Bagh on Benazir Bhutto's death anniversary

Says foolproof security must be arranged at the rally

RAWALPINDI: The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday gave Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) permission to hold a rally at Liaquat Bagh on December 27 to mark the 11th death anniversary of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto, after the district administration refused, earlier this week.

Senior Judge Malik Shahzad Gehba of the Rawalpindi bench heard the petition.

In a notification issued on Monday, Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Saifullah Dogar said police and the special branch had recommended against holding a public gathering at the venue owing to the prevailing security situation.

The Rawalpindi bench rejected this decision and permitted PPP to hold the public rally on December 27.

"This would not be necessary if Benazir Bhutto was given security."

BB’s death anniversary: PPP denied permission to hold Liaquat Bagh rally

Justice Malik also questioned why PPP was being singled out from all other political parties.

"City police officer, you cannot provide security to PPP leader Bilawal Bhutto? What is the benefit of  CPO if he cannot provide security to a national leader?" he asked.

Justice Malik said all necessary agencies must provide foolproof security to the people.

On Monday after permission to conduct the rally was rejected, Bilawal slammed the government for suppressing political activities in the country by harassing the opposition and stressed that the party would not compromise on its principles.