Islamabad, November 22, 2024- Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has stated that the government will ensure full compliance with court orders and will not permit any sit-ins, rallies, or protests under any circumstances. Speaking to the media in Islamabad, he emphasized that any potential loss of life during such incidents would be the responsibility of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
Naqvi revealed that he is scheduled to meet the Prime Minister to discuss forming a committee for negotiations with PTI. However, he made it clear that any attempt to stage a sit-in would lead to complications. Addressing rumors of communication with individuals in Adiala Jail, Naqvi categorically denied having any contact with the facility.
When questioned by a journalist about PTI allowing protests during its tenure and why the current government was denying similar permissions, Naqvi clarified that the government had received an application for a protest, which was still under review. He refuted claims of denying permission outright.
Regarding the possibility of unrest and loss of life, the minister stressed that those violating court orders or storming restricted areas would bear responsibility for any consequences. Responding to concerns about road closures, Naqvi acknowledged the inconvenience but said such measures were sometimes unavoidable for security reasons.
Commenting on the recent Parachinar incident, Naqvi expressed regret over the loss of lives and criticized the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government for failing to maintain law and order. He stated that while law enforcement was the provincial government’s responsibility under the 18th Amendment, the federal government had provided assistance, including Frontier Corps (FC) platoons. He questioned whether the KP government was more focused on addressing terrorism or organizing protests.
Naqvi reiterated that any violation of Section 144 in Islamabad would result in action against offenders. Addressing recent remarks by Bushra Bibi, he criticized PTI for politicizing international relations, citing examples of their inconsistent stances on the United States and other nations.
The minister called on PTI to use lawful avenues for protests instead of resorting to destructive actions. He warned that negotiations would not proceed if PTI chose to engage in sit-ins alongside talks, urging them to adopt a legitimate approach for dialogue.
