Lahore (HRNW)- Punjab Inspector General of Police Rao Abdul Kareem has warned that no one will be allowed to engage in vandalism during the September 27 PTI protest, saying strict action will be taken against violations of the law.
Speaking to the media outside the Lahore High Court, the Punjab police chief said anyone wishing to hold a protest must obtain permission from the relevant Deputy Commissioner. He added that he was not aware of any formal application having been submitted for the planned demonstration.
The IG said police action would not be discriminatory and maintained that the Punjab Police has an internal accountability mechanism. He also rejected allegations of vandalism at private residences, advising individuals with such complaints to approach the police complaint cell.
The remarks came amid heightened security and political tensions ahead of the PTI’s planned September 27 protest and march toward Islamabad. Authorities have already increased security preparations, while several PTI activists and leaders have faced detention or arrest in the days leading up to the planned mobilisation.
Separately, the Lahore High Court has been hearing contempt proceedings involving Punjab Police officials. In a recent hearing, Chief Justice Aalia Neelum expressed dissatisfaction with the legibility and formatting of a police FIR and summoned the Punjab IG to appear before the court with the relevant record.
The court also directed the police to adopt a uniform and readable format for FIRs across Punjab and sought compliance with its directions.
The Punjab police chief’s warning comes as authorities and political parties remain divided over the conduct and security arrangements surrounding the September 27 PTI protest.
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