NOC Issued for Bagh-e-Jinnah Rally
The Sindh government has granted the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) permission to hold a public rally in Karachi at Bagh-e-Jinnah on January 11 (Sunday). The approval comes through a conditional No Objection Certificate (NOC), setting clear rules for organisers.
Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Memon confirmed the rally would take place at Bagh-e-Jinnah Ground. He emphasized that the NOC contains strict instructions that PTI must follow to ensure public safety and compliance with the law.
“The organisers are responsible for maintaining law and order during the rally,” Memon said. He added they must also ensure smooth traffic management in surrounding areas and conclude the event on schedule.
Conditions to Maintain Law and Order
The NOC explicitly prohibits provocative speeches, sectarian remarks, or any criticism against Pakistan and state institutions. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) must be fully implemented throughout the event.
Memon also clarified that the district administration retains the right to revoke the NOC if there are security concerns. “Maintaining peace during the rally is PTI’s responsibility,” he stated.
Earlier, PTI leader Haleem Adil Sheikh had planned a rally at the VIP gate of Mazar-e-Quaid due to difficulties accessing Bagh-e-Jinnah. Police reportedly blocked rally materials from entering the venue and locked the gate, prompting Sheikh to allege a “conspiracy.” He had vowed that the rally would proceed, either inside or outside Bagh-e-Jinnah.
Coordination and Democratic Norms
With the NOC now issued, PTI has legal permission to hold the rally at Bagh-e-Jinnah under stipulated conditions. Authorities and party organisers are expected to coordinate closely to ensure safety and compliance.
Sindh Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah noted that the government is committed to democratic norms. He said PTI could hold rallies anywhere in Karachi as long as the events adhere to legal regulations.
Shah stressed that peaceful political activity cannot be stopped in a democracy. “There is no ban on the PTI rally, but violations of law could create problems,” he warned.
He also confirmed that PTI has separately applied to hold rallies in Korangi and Karachi South, which are currently under review. The Sindh government’s approach highlights a balance between political freedom and maintaining public order during high-profile events.
