IHC orders provision of security, other facilities to Baloch protesters

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has ordered the police and the district administration to ensure security for the Baloch protestors while restraining them from harassing them.

The IHC directed the CDA to provide them with disposable washrooms. On Saturday, IHC single member bench consisting of Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani issued a written order for the hearing of the Baloch protesters harassment case, in which it has been declared that every citizen should be protected under the law, has the right to assemble and protest.

The Baloch protestors must assure that they will not violate the law and they will take permission from the district administration before using the loudspeaker, the court declared and said if the protest affected the rights of other citizens and their movement, the administration could intervene.

According to the petitioner’s lawyer, those who bring food, blankets and other items to the protesters are harassed, while the DC Islamabad has said that they are ready to meet the needs of the Baloch protesters including security.

The IHC adjourned further hearing of the case till January 19, directing to appoint one or two focal persons to interact with the police and administration.