Protests at Zaman Park, Lahore (Image Source: PTI’s twitter handle)
Islamabad – Thousands of supporters of Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan clashed with police in Islamabad after he called for a sit-in protest demanding the release of jailed PTI leaders, including Khan, who has been imprisoned on corruption charges since August 2023.
Protesters, ignoring a government order that banned public gatherings, gathered close to the parliament building. This led to violent clashes with the police. The police used tear gas and batons to stop the protesters from breaking through the security barriers. The clashes caused injuries to both protesters and police, and at least four members of the paramilitary forces were killed.
Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah criticized the violence, saying, “The government will not allow anyone to use protests as an excuse to create chaos in the country.” He added that while peaceful protests are a right in a democracy, it is not acceptable to attack police or damage public property.
This event is one of many clashes between PTI supporters and the government after Khan was arrested. In May 2023, similar protests broke out across the country, causing a lot of damage to property and loss of lives. The government has become stricter with PTI, making many arrests and limiting public gatherings.
Experts say that the continuing political turmoil could make Pakistan’s economic problems worse, scaring away foreign investors and aid. The government’s tough response to the protests suggests that there will be more unrest unless a political solution is found.
The situation remains tense, with PTI leaders calling for continued demonstrations until their demands are met. The government’s response and willingness to engage in dialogue will be crucial in determining the country’s path forward.
BY – NIKITA
