The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest scheduled for November 24 is set to be a high-stakes political event. With demands for the release of party founder Imran Khan and calls for a broader dialogue with the government, the PTI leadership has made its objectives clear. However, the scale of the security arrangements has sparked critical discussions about governance, the cost of such measures, and the implications for fundamental human rights.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi has requested extensive reinforcements, including personnel from Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police forces. This includes two Deputy Inspector Generals (DIGs), ten District Police Officers (DPOs), and contingents of 4,000 Rangers and 5,000 Frontier Corps (FC) officers, equipped with anti-riot gear. Additionally, 2,000 personnel from Punjab and Sindh will bolster these arrangements. The federal capital will effectively be sealed off with 50 checkpoints to prevent PTI workers from entering Islamabad.
PTI leaders have framed the protest as a fight for democracy and the rule of law. Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ali Amin Gandapur stated, “Negotiations regarding the November 24 protest will only begin after the release of Imran Khan.” The party has also emphasized its constitutional right to peaceful assembly and political expression, accusing the government of suppressing dissent through excessive security measures.
Another senior PTI leader criticized the heavy-handed approach: “Blocking roads and mobilizing thousands of personnel against a peaceful protest only shows the government’s fear of the people’s voice.” The party claims the measures undermine their ability to organize and express grievances effectively, highlighting the importance of free political activity as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan.
On the other side, government officials have justified the extensive security arrangements as necessary to maintain law and order. A spokesperson from the Ministry of Interior remarked, “The state has a responsibility to ensure the safety of all citizens, and any potential unrest or violence during the protest must be contained.” The imposition of Section 144 in Rawalpindi, a garrison city adjacent to Islamabad, underscores the government’s concern about unrest and the possibility of clashes.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi added, “We cannot allow any group to jeopardize the security of the federal capital or disrupt the daily lives of its citizens. Our priority is to prevent violence and maintain stability.” Naqvi, who also holds the position of PCB chairman, has faced criticism for juggling these dual roles during such a sensitive time.
The financial implications of these security measures are staggering. For the October PTI rally, Rs27 million was spent, with 6,000 personnel deployed and 600 containers rented to block access points. Containers alone cost Rs24 million, with each averaging Rs40,000 per day. With the November 24 protest expected to see similar or even higher expenditures, questions arise about the use of public funds for political confrontations rather than development or public welfare.
The overwhelming security arrangements have sparked debates about fundamental human rights in Pakistan. Article 16 of the Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful assembly, while Article 19 ensures freedom of speech and expression. By blocking access points, suspending mobile and internet services, and deploying massive security forces, critics argue the government is infringing upon these rights under the guise of maintaining order.
Human rights activists have voiced their concerns. “While the state has the right to enforce law and order, these actions border on authoritarianism. Political protests are a hallmark of democracy, and suppressing them undermines the legitimacy of democratic institutions,” said one activist.
The Bigger Picture
The PTI protest and its handling by the government reflect broader political tensions in Pakistan. The polarization between the ruling coalition and opposition parties has deepened, leaving little room for dialogue or compromise. PTI’s demands for the release of Imran Khan as a precondition for negotiations underline the trust deficit between the two sides.
Furthermore, the reliance on overwhelming security measures reveals a lack of confidence in alternative conflict resolution mechanisms. Instead of engaging in dialogue to address political grievances, the government’s approach appears to be one of containment and suppression, further alienating opposition supporters.
While ensuring public safety is a legitimate concern, the government must strike a balance between maintaining order and upholding citizens’ rights. Excessive security measures not only stifle political expression but also risk escalating tensions. Dialogue remains the only sustainable solution to Pakistan’s political crisis. Both the government and PTI must recognize the importance of constructive engagement to resolve their differences and move forward.
The November 24 PTI protest is not just a test of political will but also a reflection of Pakistan’s democratic values. The heavy-handed security arrangements, while intended to prevent unrest, have raised serious questions about governance, the use of public funds, and the protection of fundamental rights. As Pakistan navigates this critical juncture, the need for dialogue, compromise, and respect for democratic principles has never been more urgent.
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Coverpage’s editorial stance.
