Islamabad: Ahead of PTI protest following the court’s ruling, KP police leadership issued internal orders instructing officers of all ranks to remain within their designated jurisdictions and refrain from engaging in political activity of any kind.
The directive stressed that no member of the force may participate in or facilitate political actions that could compromise their duties. Supervisory officers were told to enforce the guidance “in letter and spirit,” signaling strict compliance expectations across the province.
PHC earlier Restricted Use of Government Resources in Protests
The ruling came in response to a petition seeking to stop authorities from deploying rescue equipment, fire brigades, heavy machinery and government vehicles for political mobilization. After reviewing responses from officials and examining evidence, the court found that the use of public assets for political purposes violated constitutional principles of neutrality and accountability.
The court also noted that authorities had allegedly seized several official vehicles in Islamabad during a recent rally and the judge stressed that diverting state resources to political events undermines public trust and breaches the duty of impartial governance. The judgment added that public officials cannot use public funds to advance partisan interests or create the perception that the government endorses any political group.
Misuse May Constitute Misconduct
The court warned that unauthorized deployment of state resources could amount to misconduct under service laws and may trigger accountability proceedings. The ruling emphasized that Articles 4, 5 and 25 of the Constitution legally bind public officials to act lawfully, maintain neutrality and ensure equal treatment of all citizens.
While disposing of the petition, the court earlier directed all government bodies to ensure that they do not use or permit the use of any official vehicle, machinery or manpower for any protest, long march or political activity.
Broader Push for Administrative Neutrality
The twin directives come at a time of heightened political tension, as authorities work to ensure that state institutions remain detached from partisan conflicts. The court underscored that blending government functions with political agendas risks public disorder and erodes confidence in the fairness of the administration.
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