Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has said that protests in Islamabad must be held only after permission is obtained, and that demonstrations by groups or mobs will not be allowed. Speaking during a visit to the Kashmir Chowk underpass project, he said the state’s position is clear and will not be relaxed.
Naqvi’s stance on protests and mob gatherings
Naqvi said anyone wishing to stage a protest must first secure approval. He added that protests organised by groups would not be permitted.
Progress on the Kashmir Chowk underpass and F-9 Park
The minister said about 80 percent of the underpass work has been completed, and the route will benefit travellers heading to Murree and Muzaffarabad. He explained that the project ran into trouble after a government department dug up a road without permission, refilled it and left. Authorities then spent two months on difficulties before contractors finished the work, and he admitted the department’s action was a mistake.
On F-9 Park, Naqvi said no construction is under way there, and lights and more trees are planned. He also said encroached land in Islamabad will be recovered and that the capital’s master plan has been prepared. Finally, he said he had spent the day on political matters and would now turn his attention to Islamabad’s affairs.
