Ban on PTM: IHC issues notices to Manzoor Pashteen, Ali Wazir, Mohsin Javed

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday sought replies from the Ministry of Interior and other respondents in a petition seeking a ban on the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM).

The court also issued notices to PTM leader Manzoor Pashteen and lawmakers Mohsin Javed and Ali Wazir.

Presiding the hearing, Justice Amir Farooq directed all concerned institutions to that ensure all rules and regulations are implemented in the matter.

The hearing was subsequently adjourned until June 3.

Blocking of Gulalai Ismail's social media accounts

Hearing another related petition seeking to delete and block social media accounts of PTM member Gulalai Ismail, the court sought replies from Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA), Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and the federal Ministry of Interior.

Giving his remarks in the case, Justice Amir Farooq said that it was necessary for PEMRA to take appropriate action if anybody talks against religion, the state or its institutions.

One soldier martyred as security forces repulse terrorist attack in North Waziristan

Security forces effectively repulse terrorist attack, says ISPR

The court proceedings come a day after three people were killed and five soldiers injured in a clash between security forces and PTM protesters in North Waziristan.

According to Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), a group led by Mohsin Javed and Ali Wazir, assaulted the Kharqamar check post in Boyya area of North Waziristan tribal district on Sunday morning.

"They wanted to exert pressure for the release of suspected terrorists’ facilitator arrested the other day. Troops at the check post exercised maximum restraint in the face of provocation and direct firing on the post," said the Pakistan Army's media wing.

Five soldiers were injured due to firing by the group, ISPR added. Three individuals who attacked the check post lost their lives while the ten injured were taken to the Army hospital for treatment, said the military's media wing.

MNA Ali Wazir along with eight others were arrested while Mohsin Javed was still at large, it added.

In a tweet, DG ISPR Major General Asif Ghafoor said the innocent PTM supporters and workers need care. 

"Only few are inciting and using them against state institutions for vested agenda. No one will be allowed to undo the gains of decades long national struggle and sacrifices especially of brave Pakistani tribals," he said.