The court said even a person holding public office could not occupy Islamabad’s roads, entry and exit routes, interchanges or toll plazas, stressing that citizens’ freedom of movement must not be restricted through marches, rallies or processions.
According to the written order, any obstruction to routes leading to Islamabad would violate citizens’ rights. The court also directed that political activities must not disrupt trade, businesses, access to educational institutions or medical facilities.
The court ruled that activities affecting citizens’ fundamental rights in Islamabad would amount to a violation of the Constitution and that those responsible could face consequences under the law.
The Islamabad High Court directed provincial governments to ensure that government resources and public funds are not used for marches or rallies heading towards Islamabad.
Government officials were also barred from assisting or facilitating such political activities. Official vehicles, machinery and other government equipment cannot be used to support protesters, the court ordered.
The court further prohibited forcing government employees to participate in political marches or rallies or inducing them to take part through any means.
Chief secretaries, the Islamabad chief commissioner and inspector generals were directed to establish mechanisms through which government officials could report complaints of political pressure, coercion or attempts to involve them in facilitating a march.
The court ordered that immediate departmental action be taken against government officials who violate these directions.
It also observed that public office holders who engage in activities affecting fundamental rights could be held responsible for violating their constitutional oath and could face consequences under the Constitution and law.
The Islamabad administration was directed to ensure protection of citizens’ constitutional rights, while provincial governments and relevant authorities were ordered to strictly implement the court’s directions.