On Sunday, the Islamabad administration heightened security and closed several roads leading to the federal capital in preparation for a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rally in Sangjani.
Authorities instructed police officers to remain in their assigned areas and ensure officers were fully equipped. Officers were also advised to avoid using mobile phones during duty.
In a concerning development, police discovered a suspicious bag near the rally site. Inside, they found a hand grenade, detonator, electric wires, and other explosives. The bomb disposal squad was dispatched to the scene, and an investigation is ongoing.
To ensure safety, a large contingent of law enforcement, including police, Rangers, and paramilitary forces, will be stationed at the venue and throughout the city. Officials said these units will be on standby to address any potential disturbances.
Previously, the PTI rally was delayed when the city administration revoked its no-objection certificate and sealed roads on August 22. PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Khan confirmed that the event was rescheduled for September 8 after consulting with party founder Imran Khan.
For security, containers have been placed at key points around the city to limit movement. Roads leading to the Red Zone are blocked, and only authorized individuals can use the Margalla route. Major arteries like GT Road, Islamabad Expressway, and other key routes are also closed, causing inconvenience to residents despite alternate routes being provided. Additionally, metro bus services between Rawalpindi and Islamabad have been suspended.
Officials have revealed plans to isolate the rally venue to prevent any unrest during the event. However, the rough terrain at the location, with sand mounds and pits, has made seating arrangements challenging for organizers.
Meanwhile, a day before the rally, President Asif Ali Zardari signed into law a bill regulating public assemblies in Islamabad. The new law, “The Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, 2024,” gives the district magistrate authority to control or ban public gatherings. Violations could result in up to three years of imprisonment and fines, with repeat offenders facing up to 10 years in jail. The law allows the district magistrate to extend bans on gatherings if needed.
Following the bill’s passage, PTI requested that the Islamabad administration not obstruct their rally, citing the no-objection certificate they had previously secured.
