Refusing to allow Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) to hold a rally, DC Lahore has cautioned the PTI leaders that if the PTI does not postpone the rally, there will be no choice but to implement Section 144 in the city. 

PTI chairman and former prime minister Imran Khan on Saturday announced to hold a rally in Lahore on Sunday.

In this regard, PTI after finalizing two possible routes for the rally, PTI leaders sought a no objection certificate (NOC) from Lahore Deputy Commissioner for holding a rally on Sunday. 

In a letter written to DC Lahore, PTI proposed a route that will start from Zaman Park at 2 pm and end at Data Darbar after passing through Garhi Shahu, Allama Iqbal Road, Railway Station, Brandreth Road, Shah Aalmi Chowk, and Bhatti Gate.    

According to the second proposed route, the PTI chairman will lead the rally that would start from his Zaman Park residence at 2 pm and culminate at Data Darbar after passing through Canal Road, Ferozepur Road, Litton Road, and Lower Mall. 

The Lahore administration has been informed about both routes but it refused to give permission saying Sunday’s rally cannot be allowed due to the cricket match being played in Qadhafi Stadium.   

The cricket match is a very sensitive day because of the team's arrival and the team's departure, adds DC Lahore. 

PTI leader Hamad Azhar said if the first proposed route is not allowed, the rally will use the old route. 

“Imran Khan will address the participants of the rally at different points on the route while sitting inside the bulletproof vehicle, “he added.