PHA opposes PTI rally at Liaquat Bagh

Authority cites concerns over potential damage to park's aesthetics

RAWALPINDI:

The Parks and Horticulture Authority has formally opposed the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) holding a rally at Liaquat Bagh this Saturday, stating that the park has been transformed into a beautiful family space.

The PHA authorities warned that any rally would damage its aesthetic appeal, harm flower beds, and ruin the park's greenery. Additionally, the district administration has decided against granting PTI permission to hold the event.

In response, PTI's district president, Chaudhry Amir Afzal, and Secretary General Aqil Khan, along with leaders from the Insaf Lawyers Forum, submitted an official request to the deputy commissioner on Tuesday morning.

Recognising that permission for Liaquat Bagh might be denied, PTI proposed an alternative venue at the sacrificial animal market in Bhata Chowk, a central area connecting the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, which is accessible from multiple major roads and has a significant population nearby.

Another governmental body has also suggested the Rawat animal market as an alternative location. Following consultations with Commissioner Amir Rafique, the Regional Police Officer, City Police Officer, and SP Special Branch, Deputy Commissioner Hassan Waqar Cheema forwarded the request to the Punjab Home Department in Lahore. The Home Department will consult with the provincial government and inform the deputy commissioner of their stance.

A decision regarding the venue for the rally is expected on Wednesday (today), September 25, and PTI leadership will be notified in writing. Based on this response, PTI will decide whether to approach the Rawalpindi Bench of the Lahore High Court.

The party has stated that they will accept permission to hold the rally at any location in Rawalpindi. They emphasised that PTI is the largest political party in Pakistan and wishes to exercise its constitutional right to hold a peaceful rally at Liaquat Bagh on September 28.

They assured that they would comply with the deputy commissioner's orders regarding the event. In addition to this request, PTI has also made significant contacts for rally permissions in Rawalpindi, Lahore and Islamabad in recent days.

As tensions rise over the planned rally, PTI leaders have called for unity among party members and supporters, urging them to remain peaceful and respectful during the ongoing negotiations with authorities.

They believe that the ability to gather and express their views is crucial to democratic practices and have expressed hope that a suitable venue will be secured for their event.