Islamabad High Court Furious Over Road Closures During PTI Protest
Islamabad, November 24: Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Amir Farooq expressed strong displeasure over the road blockages caused during the PTI protest, following a contempt of court petition filed by local traders. The petition claimed that the protest severely disrupted business activities, leading to financial losses.
Justice Farooq criticized the government and administration for failing to maintain law and order, resulting in the complete shutdown of Islamabad. He pointed out that the administration had publicly stated that they were not permitting protests in accordance with the court’s order, yet they had failed to ensure the protection of the basic rights of citizens and business owners, as the court had directed.
The Chief Justice remarked, “You were supposed to maintain peace and order, but instead, you shut down the entire city. You even announced on media that protests were being stopped in line with the court’s order. We had asked you to ensure that the rights of citizens and businesses were protected.”
Justice Farooq also questioned PTI’s actions, stating, “I will also ask PTI why they violated the court’s orders. Why did they disrupt the businesses of ordinary citizens?”
The petitioners argued that their businesses were unfairly affected, and they sought a remedy for their losses. Justice Farooq highlighted the extent of the disruption, saying, “You blocked Islamabad to the point that even judges, including myself, could not get to work. I was a victim of my own orders.”
During the hearing, DSP Legal Sajid Cheema and State Counsel Malik Abdul Rahman appeared in court. The State Counsel informed the court that some reports had been submitted, while others were still pending.
Justice Farooq reprimanded the State Counsel, questioning, “Is this your first appearance before the court? You should have provided expert opinions.” The court then ordered the Ministry of Interior to submit a detailed report and adjourned the case until next week for further proceedings.
