Islamabad High Court Condemns Violation of Fundamental Human Rights under Sit-in Law

Islamabad: The Islamabad High Court has issued remarks during the hearing of a contempt of election application against the Chief Commissioner, criticizing the violation of fundamental human rights by the law governing sit-in orders.
Despite a judicial directive, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf was denied permission for a gathering, prompting a contempt of court case against the Chief Commissioner in the Islamabad High Court. Advocate General requested a session post-Hajj.
The Advocate General informed the court that processions and ceremonies continue until the fortieth day after Hajj, assuring that the gathering would proceed thereafter. He stated that all details have been compiled.
During the proceedings, Shoaib Shahin questioned whether friends sitting in Faizabad are doing so without permission, to which Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb inquired who exactly is sitting in Faizabad. Shahin retorted if they are sitting with permission, no one is stopping them. Hundreds of sessions have been held in F-9 Park, with no issues arising so far.
The court queried about events scheduled for August 14 and whether any orders were issued to halt them. The Advocate General replied that no such orders were issued.
Shahin appealed to the court to grant permission for the gathering, promising cooperation. The court directed both parties to resolve the matter in the Chief Justice’s court on Monday.
Addressing the Chief Commissioner, Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb suggested leaving the fortieth and focusing on the forty-first, as state events are scheduled next month. He approved their request, stating it is their constitutional right to hold a gathering. The violation of people’s fundamental human rights under the law of the sit-in order was highlighted.
The court inquired about the Ministry of Interior’s stance on the gathering, to which the ministry representative responded that gatherings are scheduled after Muharram. Justice noted this is the current stance, understanding who is doing what and at whose behest.
Shahin emphasized granting permission for the gathering, ensuring they will manage all security matters themselves. Subsequently, the court directed the parties to sit and resolve the matter by Monday.