20000328

Govt to review

ban on political

party rallies

next month

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Lt. Gen. Moin-ud-Din Haider (Retd) said on Monday, the governments will review the existing ban on holding rallies and public meetings by the political parties in April.

"The government will review this matter in April," he said in response to a question while talking to reporters here at the conclusion of the passing out ceremony of the 21st Basic Course of ASPs held at National Police Academy.

The minister, however, observed that the culture of agitation and upheaval was not a good one as we have a free press in the country to provide every information to people.

To another question, the minister said, we have to fight terrorism and violence by talking strong measures as this evil, wherever it exists, blocks the way of development and prosperity.

He, however, stressed that such measures must be backed by public endorsement and support, adding, support of the people will help the government to curb this menace.

The minister replied in affirmative when asked if the government was in contact with the people of 'Madrasas' (religious schools) in this regard.

To a question regarding the ban on display of weapons, Moinuddin Haider said, the government's move to put a ban on display of weapons has received a good response and a major change has been witnessed in this direction all over the country.

Regarding disarmament of society through withdrawal of arms licences particularly the licences of prohibited bores, the minister said, the government will move towards this direction and in the first step outlaws will be disarmed and then general public will asked to do the same.

"There is no need to allow the people to keep prohibited bore arms such as assault rifles, Klashnikov etc."

He said, "people in a civilised society should have pens, computers, 'Bailcha', 'Gainti' (farming tools) etc. with them rather than arms."

To a question about curtailing of police powers as part of the police reforms, the minister said, some of the clauses in police act and penal code, which can be misused, will be abolished. He said, those in police uniform should be accountable for their wrong-doings, adding, but those in public who indulge in registering fake FIRs or complaints should also be punished for making the mockery of rule and law.

The minister while talking about the problems of police said, the police force has a lot of pressure on it with low salaries and little basic facilities for them and their families such as education, housing, medical cover etc.

He said, the government will try to address these problems being faced by police force within the resources.ÑAPP