PTI Islamabad protest latest updates and current situation explained
Tragically, four Rangers personnel were killed when a speeding car ran over them on Srinagar Highway near G-10.
ISLAMABAD: Thousands of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters flooded Islamabad, defying a tight lockdown and widespread arrests in their quest to demand the release of party founder Imran Khan, who has been behind bars since August of the previous year. The protest, which saw clashes with security forces, has led to heightened tensions in the capital city.
In response to the escalating unrest, the federal government invoked Article 245 of the Constitution, deploying the Pakistan Army to assist in maintaining law and order. The military’s presence aims to control the situation and ensure the safety of citizens as the PTI protest continues.
Tragically, four Rangers personnel were killed when a speeding car ran over them on Srinagar Highway near G-10. This incident has drawn strong condemnation from top government officials. Meanwhile, PTI leaders claim that many of their supporters were injured by law enforcement, including in police shootings. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that PTI workers fired on security forces, which resulted in six security personnel being injured.
As the PTI convoys advanced towards D-Chowk, a central location near Constitution Avenue, they faced fierce resistance from law enforcement at various checkpoints. Stones were hurled at security forces during clashes at Chungi No. 26, and protestors faced tear gas and rubber bullets instead of live fire, as confirmed by Minister Naqvi. Unfortunately, police constable Mubashir Bilal was confirmed dead as a result of the clashes, and an FIR has been filed against protest organizers.
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While negotiations were reportedly underway, PTI leaders including Zulfi Bukhari and Rauf Hasan rushed to Adiala Jail to engage with Imran Khan over the ongoing crisis, but no significant breakthrough was achieved. Interior Minister Naqvi dismissed claims of backdoor talks, while Defense Minister Khawaja Asif warned that the government had no choice but to use force if PTI attempted to march to D-Chowk.
In light of the protests and security concerns, educational institutions in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Murree were closed for a second consecutive day, with both government and private schools and colleges shutting their doors to prevent further disturbances.
The situation remains fluid, as PTI continues its march towards the heart of Islamabad, despite the heavy security presence and military involvement. The government has prepared for further clashes, with the security forces remaining on high alert to manage the volatile situation.
