Security guidelines issued for political rallies in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government’s home and tribal affairs department has devised special security guidelines and code of conduct for political parties, its leadership and holding of political rallies in the wake of the deadly Bajaur suicide bombing on JUI (F) workers’ convention.

The police authorities and district administrations have been directed to adopt as well as convey the security guidelines to the leadership of all the political parties. “In the wake of law and order situation in the province, it is felt that political parties’ leadership should be sensitized to adopt security guidelines, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in their campaigns, movements, power shows and rallies for the protection of their leaders and workers. In this context, special guidelines have been devised for the political parties that are to be enforced by the district administrations,” stated a letter issued by Secretary Home and Tribal Affairs department, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Abid Majeed, to the provincial police officer and divisional commissioners.

The standard operating procedures (SOPs) require political parties to submit applications for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to the district administration for meetings and corner gatherings. The applications must include details of the venue, list of leadership, and expected audience numbers. Local leadership must also submit an affidavit stating that no roads or streets will be blocked, and no disruptions to traffic flow will be caused during the gatherings.

To prevent clashes and logistical issues, different political parties are advised not to hold meetings on the same date, time and place. The NOCs for corner meetings and political gatherings will be issued by the deputy commissioner, who will also work with stakeholders to identify two or three suitable venues for such events. The SOPs restrict political activities in government, semi-government, autonomous institutions, sports grounds, and roads, limiting them to closed premises. Additionally, all political meetings should be held during daylight hours and adhere to the scheduled time. The use of loudspeakers is permitted at large political gatherings, but not near public places, places of worship, hospitals, or educational institutions. – News Agencies