Islamabad (National Times) The Islamabad High Court has issued a 37-page detailed judgment in a petition challenging the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) long march scheduled for September 27.
In its detailed ruling, the court stated that any activity resulting in the violation of citizens’ fundamental rights would be considered a violation of the Constitution.
The court observed that depriving residents of Islamabad of their fundamental rights would amount to a constitutional violation and that those responsible could face legal action in accordance with the law.
No Legal Authority to Block Highways
The Islamabad High Court made it clear that no political party has a legal right to block public highways or roads.
The court also directed provincial governments not to use public funds or government resources for the proposed march towards Islamabad.
According to the judgment, government vehicles and machinery cannot be used to facilitate the long march or any related political activity.
The court stressed that political activities must not interfere with the fundamental rights of ordinary citizens or disrupt public access to roads and other essential routes.
Helpline Ordered for Government Employees
The detailed order also contains directions concerning government employees.
The court directed that an immediate helpline should be established for government employees in case they are issued unlawful orders.
The judgment further stated that individuals who violate court orders or take actions that infringe upon the rights of citizens would be subject to legal proceedings.
Public Office Holders Bound by Their Oath
The Islamabad High Court also addressed the constitutional responsibilities of holders of public office.
According to the judgment, a public office holder who violates the Constitution or the law would be considered to have acted in breach of their oath.
The court said that if the fundamental rights of citizens are affected because of the actions of a government official, such conduct would constitute a violation of the official’s oath.
The judgment further stated that government officials found responsible for violating the Constitution or law would have to face the consequences prescribed by law.
Petition Against September 27 March
The detailed judgment was issued in connection with a petition challenging the PTI’s announced long march towards Islamabad on September 27.
The court’s ruling lays down directions concerning political activities, protection of citizens’ fundamental rights and the use of government resources in connection with political gatherings.
The judgment emphasised that while political activities may take place, they cannot be conducted in a manner that infringes upon the fundamental rights of citizens or involves the use of public resources for political purposes.
