The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rally organized in Lahore’s Kahna exceeded its allotted time, leading to warnings from local authorities. According to Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari, the official time frame for the event, which was scheduled from 3pm to 6pm, had expired. Deputy Commissioner (DC) Lahore, Syed Musa Raza, instructed rally organizers to adhere to the approved schedule and warned that any breach of the No Objection Certificate (NOC) would result in legal action.
Despite these clear directives, the central leadership of PTI had not arrived in Lahore by the scheduled time, causing the rally to spill over beyond the permitted hours. This delay raised concerns among local authorities, who were already prepared for crowd control.
Police were deployed at key entry and exit points throughout the city to manage the situation and ensure that the rally did not continue unlawfully. The New Ravi Bridge was closed to traffic, further complicating the day for residents. Additional law enforcement resources were placed on alert to file cases against any violations of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to the rally.
Although the rally had officially ended, large groups of PTI supporters continued to gather, including men, women, and children. Many attendees had parked their vehicles kilometers away and walked to the venue, waving party flags and wearing PTI-themed scarves and caps.
As the event stretched beyond its permitted time, traffic congestion worsened, especially near General Hospital, where long lines of vehicles, motorcycles, and rickshaws piled up. The absence of lighting arrangements around the rally site added to the difficulties for participants trying to find their way.
“The rally’s time has ended. PTI should pack up their setup and go home,” Azma Bukhari commented, urging the organizers to conclude the event.
Meanwhile, PTI convoys, including one led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, were en route to Lahore, despite the official rally time already being over. The convoy, comprising party workers and leaders from southern districts of KP and Peshawar, was traveling via the Swabi route. Reports indicated that Gandapur’s convoy included baton-wielding workers, with containers prepared for key leaders.
Tensions between PTI and the authorities escalated as police reportedly confiscated lights, generators, and sound systems set up by the party. PTI supporters claimed the police were preventing them from reaching the rally site. However, the rally preparation continued, with stalls selling PTI-branded items and thousands of chairs arranged at the venue.
Adding to the legal troubles for PTI leaders, an anti-terrorism court in Islamabad issued non-bailable arrest warrants for KP Chief Minister Gandapur and other PTI leaders, citing their involvement in a terrorism case linked to an attack at the Judicial Complex. Umar Tanveer Butt, another PTI leader, was declared an absconder due to his repeated absences in court hearings.
Despite the legal challenges and logistical issues, PTI leadership and supporters remained defiant, insisting on their right to peaceful assembly. Provincial Assembly member Fazal Elahi declared, “No force can stop us from reaching Lahore.” PTI workers continued their preparations for what they believed was a significant political gathering, even as authorities remained poised to enforce the law.
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