PHC bars use of government resources for political rallies in KP

PESHAWAR: The Peshawar High Court has declared the use of government resources for organising demonstrations and processions illegal, directing the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to refrain from deploying public assets for political activities.

A bench comprising Justice Sahibzada Asadullah and Justice Inamullah Khan ruled that government employees, vehicles, public funds, fuel, and official facilities must not be used — directly or indirectly — for rallies or protests.

The court emphasised that state resources are to be used strictly for lawful functions, including public service delivery, maintaining law and order, and protecting citizens. While acknowledging the right to peaceful protest, the bench noted that it is not absolute and must remain within constitutional limits.

The 28-page judgement was issued while disposing of a petition filed by Javed Naseem, who sought to restrain the provincial government from using official machinery for political gatherings. The petition had been filed ahead of a public meeting announced by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, which was later called off.

Representing the petitioner, Anwarul Haq argued against the misuse of state resources, while Shah Faisal Uthmankhel appeared on behalf of the provincial government.

The bench also issued directives to key officials, including the chief secretary and the inspector general of police (IGP), stressing that all departments must operate strictly within their constitutional mandate. It directed authorities to ensure that public resources, administrative powers, and government personnel are not diverted toward political or partisan objectives under any circumstances.

Addressing law enforcement, the court instructed the IGP to ensure that police authority and manpower remain insulated from political use and are focused solely on protecting life, liberty, and property, and upholding the rule of law.

Warning of strict action in case of non-compliance, the bench said any lapse or failure to implement its orders would invite legal consequences to safeguard public trust.

Describing public resources as a “sacred trust,” the court observed that the chief minister, as constitutional custodian, is duty-bound to ensure their use with integrity and solely for public welfare, not political purposes.