The district administration of Lahore on Monday, on the recommendation of district intelligence committee, gave a no objection certificate (NOC) to Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) for holding a public gathering at Minar-e-Pakistan on April 21, 2022, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

In this connection, former federal minister for education and PTI leader Shafqat Mehmood held a meeting with the deputy commissioner (DC) at which PTI Lahore President Sheikh Imtiaz Mehmood, General Secretary Zubair Niazi and other party leaders were also present.

Security arrangements both inside and outside the venue, particularly at entry and exit points, came under discussion at the meeting.   

Speaking on the occasion, Shafqat Mehmood said the issuance of NOC by the district administration was a welcome step. “We will build a temporary hospital as well as reserve an area for the car parking,” he said, and added, “Although, the party has finalized the plan. But the real issue now is its execution.”

Former education minister expressed his concern over the removal of PTI’s publicity material from the roads. “The intention of the newly formed government appears to be bad,” he said.

Shafqat went on to add that PTI was now going to hold its third major rally after its ouster as a result of voting on the no-confidence motion a week ago. “The first stage will be 30-feet while the second will be 20-feet high,” he elaborated.

He said that the people would be able to park their cars outside the shrine of Hazrat Ali Hajveri, Ravi Road as well as on Circular Road.   

Reporter: Rao Dilshad Hussain