Rana Sanaullah warns PTI over Islamabad protests

Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah has said the government has decided to prevent protests from entering Islamabad, describing it as a policy aimed at ending repeated demonstrations in the federal capital.

Speaking during a television programme, Sanaullah said the government had adopted a clear position that no one would be allowed to enter Islamabad for a protest. His remarks came amid political tensions surrounding the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) planned march towards the capital.

Sanaullah also warned that the government could withdraw concessions previously extended to the PTI if protesters resorted to violence. He said the party had been informed of the possible consequences of using force during demonstrations.

The PTI had initially planned to hold a long march towards Islamabad on September 27 to demand the release of its founder, Imran Khan. The party has since postponed the march and announced that it would now set out from Peshawar on October 4.

Meanwhile, Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar criticised the PTI over the postponement. He challenged the party to proceed with its planned march and alleged that the PTI and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government were facilitating militant groups.

Tarar accused the provincial government of failing to take adequate action against terrorism and alleged links between illegal mining and funding for militants. These allegations have been rejected by PTI officials, who have maintained that their proposed protest is peaceful.

The federal government has repeatedly said that protests that disrupt public order or block roads will not be permitted in Islamabad. The Islamabad High Court has also ruled that political parties do not have a legal right to occupy public roads, highways or other public places, while directing provincial authorities to prevent the use of state machinery for political protests.