ISLAMABAD – As section-144 has been imposed in the federal capital to preempt disruptions and chaos by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s lockdown and protests, Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat (ASWJ), a proscribed group, reportedly held a rally in the heart of Islamabad.
Giving clarification for the rally, Hafiz Uneeb Farooqui, a spokesman for the ASWJ Islamabad chapter said “this programme is a traditional conference similar to the traditional gatherings and processions related to Muharram. Therefore, the restriction of Section 144 does not apply to us.”
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Farooqui said ASWJ only held its annual event to honour the fallen party leaders and workers, and the stability of the country.
According to Dawn, an officer of the capital administration the party was asked to revalidate its permission issued by the deputy commissioner office on Thursday night and eventually the NOC was granted.
“Usually, there is no trouble with traditional events but the administration has certain SOPs and we ask the organisers to ensure that their event would not add fuel to the fire or that they would not use the platform against the government,” the officer said.
Reportedly, ASWJ leader Ahmed Ludhianvi’s speech was rather pro-government that criticised both Imran Khan and Sheikh Rashid Ahmed for creating disruptions in the twin cities.
“We did not want to complicate political issues or create chances of any negative impression about the event. So it was decided that the leaders of the parties in the DPC, led by Maulana Samiul Haq, may not attend the event this year,” Mr Ludhianvi told the gathering held at the Hockey Ground, Aabpara.
“I say to you both Imran Khan and Sheikh Rashid, you are members of parliament which is the highest forum in the country but still you take your case to the streets,” Mr Ludhianvi added.
