Draft ordinance declares Islamabad’s Red Zone, official institutions ‘no-go areas’

Rallies, sit-ins in the areas will not be permissible, according to draft; punishable by upto 10 years imprisonment

ISLAMABAD: In an attempt to disperse the ongoing sit-in in the capital, a draft ordinance has been released, which declares the Red Zone and other official institutions part of 'high security' areas, where holding rallies and sit-ins would be declared a culpable offence, Express News reported on Friday.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf supporters and party members have been adamant in their mission to remain at D-chowk until Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif resigns from his seat, despite Pakistan Awami Tehreek chairman Tahirul Qadri's decision to withdraw from the sit-in last month.

Their mission now may prove to be more difficult to achieve, however, as the draft legislation -- if passed-- could result in the arrest and imprisonment of any unauthorised individual entering high security zones for up to 10 years, alongside a fine of Rs6,000.

The draft legislation, obtained by Express News, stated that holding rallies and sit-ins in high security areas will not be permissible and will be declared a culpable offence.

One the prime minister approves and signs the draft, the ordinance will be in immediate effect.

Within the draft legislation, the PM house, Supreme Court, Red Zone and the diplomatic enclave have been included in the 'high security' zones. The foreign ministry, judicial colonies, D-chowk and two hotels have also been included in the high security zones.

Under this ordinance, only authorised personnel and government officials would be allowed entry into the high security zones, which would be secured and guarded by police officials and the civil armed forces.