K-P bureaucrats told to maintain neutrality

Interior ministry warns against use of state resources for PTI rally

ISLAMABAD/ PESHAWAR:

The Ministry for Interior has asked Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief secretary to ensure that the provincial government resources are not used in the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf protest slated for November 24.

In a letter written by the ministry to the K-P top bureaucrat, it was asked to ensure that no government machinery, worker or fund was used in the PTI protest.

PTI has given final protest call on November 24 in Islamabad. The Punjab government sprang into action to foil the rally. It has begun erecting containers on roads leading to the federal capital.

The Rawalpindi Police have marked to seal 47 spots in the city while 34 police kiosks will be setup at Wah Cantt and adjoining areas. Around 4,500 police personnel will be deployed to maintain law and order on November 24.

Meanwhile, following the interior ministry's letter, the K-P secretary issued directives to K-P IGP, provincial secretaries, commissioners, deputy commissioners and others, asking them to observe professional code of conduct and adhere to political neutrality.

"It is obligatory upon government functionaries to resist any pressure or temptation to misuse official resources, assets, or authority. You must all refrain from providing direct or indirect support to any political party or activity, whether through your person, subordinates or the resources at your disposal. Such actions would constitute a grave breach of duty and tarnish our image as public servants for which there will be no leniency. Any deviation from this principle will be dealt with decisively and shall invite strict legal consequences," read the directives issued by K-P Secretary Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry.

Later, Peshawar Police issued a circular, directing the police personnel deputed on politicians security not to attend any political rally. It added that a departmental action will be taken against police personnel who violate the instructions.