Interior Ministry decides to ban demonstrations, rallies in Islamabad

Interior Ministry has decided to impose ban on protest rallies and public gatherings in Islamabad due to terror threats and Shakar Parrian will be designated as public gathering point to avoid disruptive activities.
The ministry after receiving information from intelligence agencies has also decided to start aerial surveillance of the Federal Capital and people entering or leaving the capital have to produce CNIC at all entry and exit points.
The decisions were made in a high level meeting held at Interior Ministry with Federal Minister for Interior Rehman Malik in the chair here on Thursday, which was attended by Federal Secretary Interior Qamar Zaman Chaudhry, Chief Commissioner Islamabad Tariq Pirzada, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad Wajid Ali Durrani, and representatives of Rangers, Frontier Constabulary (FC) and other law enforcement agencies.
The participants were informed that information were received that certain elements would try to sabotage peace and security across the country, particularly in major cities including Islamabad. Following which security in Islamabad has been put on high alert to avert any eventuality.
It was decided in the meeting that joint patrolling of Police and Rangers would be enhanced in the capital and Islamabad Police was instructed to ensure effective and thorough checking at all police check points particularly at entry and exits of the federal capital. People were asked to carry their Identity Cards. Interior Ministry issued instructions to all law enforcement agencies including Islamabad Police that no inconvenience should be caused to general public. However, no compromise on security should be made.
The police has been asked to show utmost courtesy to the public and residents of the city. Aerial surveillance has also been ordered so that better monitoring can be ensured. These arrangements will be continued for a week's time with a view to ensure peace, tranquility and security of the residents.
The participants took stock of the concerns of business community particularly leadership of Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry demanding to designate some venue for public gatherings so that business activity should not be disturbed. It was decided to designate Shakar Parrian as public gathering point. Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Administration and Capital Development Authority (CDA) were directed to work on the proposal.