Islamabad (TDI): Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protesters, led by Bushra Bibi, wife of former prime minister Imran Khan, have reached Islamabad’s D-Chowk amidst tense clashes with law enforcement agencies.
The capital remains under heightened security, with the Pakistan Army deployed under Article 245 of the Constitution to maintain order.
Clashes erupted earlier in the day as PTI workers attempted to breach security barriers at Zero Point.
Rangers and military personnel have been stationed at key points, including government buildings and the sensitive Red Zone, while additional police reinforcements from Rawalpindi have been dispatched to control the escalating unrest.
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The Ministry of Interior has issued stringent directives, allowing law enforcement to use “extreme measures” if necessary.
Tear gas shelling in areas such as Aabpara Chowk forced businesses to shut down, while reports of injuries and arrests poured in from across the capital and adjoining regions.
Martyrdom of Security Personnel
The unrest took a deadly turn when a vehicle rammed into Rangers personnel on the Srinagar Highway, resulting in the martyrdom of four Rangers officials and two policemen.
An armed attack on security forces in Rawalpindi’s Chungi No. 26 also left a Ranger critically injured, who was later shifted to CMH Rawalpindi.
Protests Amid High Stakes
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi warned of strict action if protesters attempted to cross the Red Zone, citing security concerns due to the ongoing visit of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.
Naqvi reiterated the government’s offer to PTI to stage its sit-in at Sangjani, away from the Red Zone, but stated that no permission would be granted for demonstrations at D-Chowk.
“Protesters are attempting to provoke violence, but the government will not allow the situation to spiral out of control,” Naqvi said during a visit to D-Chowk.
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He added that Section 144 remains in effect across the region, with violators facing severe consequences.
The PTI protestors are pressing four key demands: the release of political prisoners, including Imran Khan, the reversal of the 26th Constitutional Amendment, restoration of democracy, and the return of what they allege is a “stolen mandate.”
PTI leaders have vowed not to leave the capital until these demands are met.
Barrister Gohar Khan, after meeting Imran Khan at Adiala Jail, confirmed that the protests would continue despite escalating tensions.
“This is the final call, and there will be no retreat,” he said.
Internet Blackout and Blockades
To counter the protests, authorities imposed an internet blackout in several areas, with mobile and WiFi services disrupted.
Major roads leading to Islamabad remain blocked with containers, paralyzing traffic and disrupting daily life in the twin cities and other parts of Punjab.
Arrests and Continued Clashes
Hundreds of PTI supporters and leaders have been arrested, including notable figures such as Amir Dogar and Zain Qureshi.
Clashes between law enforcement agencies and protesters have been reported across Punjab, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Attock.
Also Read: PTI Protest: Mobile Blackout, Road Blockades, Tight Security
Naqvi assured the public that law enforcement agencies are working diligently to maintain peace and protect lives and property, adding that miscreants will be dealt with according to the law.
As the PTI convoy pushes forward, the situation in Islamabad remains tense, with the government bracing for further confrontations in the days ahead.
