Punjab govt allows JI's religious gathering at Minar-e-Pakistan under strict conditions
Pakistan
To prevent crowding or stampedes, adequate parking and volunteers will be arranged
LAHORE (Dunya News) – The Punjab Home Department has granted permission to the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) for a religious, preaching, and reformative gathering at Minar-e-Pakistan, following recommendations from the district administration.
The JI had requested an NOC for the event scheduled from November 21 to 23. The District Intelligence Committee recommended a specific relaxation in Section 144 for the gathering.
Based on the deputy commissioner’s recommendation, a targeted relaxation in Section 144 was approved and formally added to the notification. It is worth noting that the district administration had earlier issued an NOC on October 20, which required formal approval. The event has been allowed subject to strict conditions.
According to the permission letter, organisers must fully comply with all rules issued by the district administration. The approval is based on an affidavit submitted by the organisers, accepting full responsibility. The administration will manage stage security, separate enclosures for men and women, and emergency routes.
To prevent crowding or stampedes, adequate parking and volunteers will be arranged. All security requirements must meet Special Branch audit standards. The sound system may only be used within the ground and at low volume. Children below a certain age will not be allowed to attend.
No shopkeeper shall be forced to shut down business. No processions or rallies will be allowed on roads. Speeches against constitutional institutions, the judiciary, or the armed forces will be strictly prohibited. Weapons, batons, or any such items are not permitted. Any speech insulting religious groups or sects is also banned.
No mobile vans or vehicles may be used for event announcements, and wall chalking is prohibited anywhere in the city. A peaceful environment must be maintained throughout the gathering, and provocative or objectionable slogans are not allowed. Organisers will bear full responsibility for any untoward incident.
Police will ensure complete security for the public and participants.
