PTI Yet to Secure Permission for September 6 Rally on Shahrah-e-Quaideen; DC Warns of Action

KARACHI: The administration of District East in Karachi has reiterated its ban on political gatherings near Shahrah-e-Quaideen and the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) continues to await official clearance for its planned rally on September 6.

Deputy Commissioner (DC) East has made it clear that no public meetings, processions, or rallies will be permitted in the vicinity of the Quaid’s mausoleum. “If any gathering is held despite the denial of permission, legal action will be taken in accordance with the law,” the DC stated.

Citing the Mazar-e-Quaid (Protection) Ordinance, the DC emphasized that political activities, demonstrations, and rallies are strictly prohibited within the shrine’s premises. He further noted that political activity is legally barred up to 10 feet from the outer wall of the mausoleum. Violations of the law can result in up to three years of imprisonment, a fine, or both.

Meanwhile, PTI maintains that its Karachi President, Fahim Khan, had submitted a formal application for rally permission last month. With approval still pending, the party has now devised an alternative strategy.

PTI leader Jamal Siddiqui revealed that under “Plan B,” the party has prepared specially equipped trucks that will serve as portable stages. “Wherever the truck stops, a temporary stage will be set up,” he said, confirming that a contingency plan is ready despite the lack of official permission.

Sources close to the matter said that Karachi police officials have contacted PTI leadership, including Fahim Khan, to communicate security concerns. Police have also advised the party to alter its route to Shahrah-e-Quaideen to avoid potential law-and-order issues.

As of now, the party has not received a formal No-Objection Certificate (NOC), and the administration has stood firm on its ban, raising the prospect of a confrontation if the rally proceeds as planned.