The legislation banning peaceful assemblies without permission in Islamabad has been challenged in the Islamabad High Court.
Chief Justice Aamir Farooq heard the case, while Advocate Iman Mazari represented the petitioner.
During the hearing, Iman Mazari argued that peaceful protests were a fundamental right of every citizen and should not be prohibited.
The Chief Justice remarked that assemblies were subject to permission and designated locations, highlighting that in Europe, the UK, and worldwide, gatherings typically require authorisation.
Mazari pointed out that violators were to face a three-year imprisonment according to the legislation, to which the Chief Justice stated that such a penalty contradicted fundamental rights.
The court subsequently issued notices to the federal government and the Secretary of Law and has acquired a response. The court while summoning the Attorney General for judicial assistance, adjourned the hearing for two weeks.
It is noteworthy that on September 5, the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Bill 2024 was passed by a majority vote in the Senate amidst strong protest from the opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf.
