Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has prepared a backup strategy for its planned August 5 public gathering in Lahore, with party leaders indicating that the protest will go ahead at an alternative location if permission to hold the rally at Minar-e-Pakistan is denied.
According to party sources, PTI is continuing discussions with the Lahore district administration over its request for permission to hold the gathering at Minar-e-Pakistan. However, the party has also finalised several alternative locations in case approval is withheld.
The proposed backup venues include Azadi Chowk, Bhatti Chowk, Liberty Chowk and GPO Chowk. PTI leadership is expected to select one of these locations if the administration rejects the Minar-e-Pakistan request.
Under the alternative plan, PTI lawmakers and ticket holders would mobilise supporters from their respective constituencies and lead them towards the selected protest venue. Senior party leaders are also expected to address the gathering.
The development reflects PTI’s effort to maintain its political mobilisation despite uncertainty over official permission for large public gatherings. The party has previously faced restrictions and permission disputes over rallies, with authorities citing security and law-and-order concerns in several cases.
PTI’s final venue decision will depend on the response from the Lahore district administration. If permission is granted, the party plans to proceed at Minar-e-Pakistan; otherwise, it says its protest will shift to an alternative location under its prepared Plan B.
