QUETTA: A case has been filed against PTI leaders for violating Section 144 and causing harm to a policeman during an attempt to organise a procession, as per the directives of party’s founding chairman Imran Khan on Monday.

       Despite the imposition of Section 144 in Quetta district, PTI activists conducted a rally in Quetta on Sunday.

       The FIR has been registered against Doda Shahwani and Salar Kakar, both contesting elections for the provincial and national assembly respectively from Quetta.

       According to a police official, they allegedly violated Section 144 by organising the rally.

       “When police officials deployed at the PTI provincial secretariat tried to halt the procession, the leaders not only breached Section 144 but also attempted to assault the police officials, resulting in injuries to a policeman,” the FIR stated.

       Following a complaint by SHO Jinnah Town, a case has been registered under Sections 188, 186, 353, 145, 147, 149.

       Sources indicate that if the PTI candidates mentioned in the FIR do not secure bail, they may be barred from participating in the election. Additionally, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) retains the authority to take action against them.

       Published in Dawn, January 30th, 2024