The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is set to hold a protest today (Saturday) at Minar-e-Pakistan in Lahore.
In an effort to prevent the protest, the provincial government has implemented extensive measures, including the arrest of PTI members, sealing the city’s entry and exit points, enforcing Section 144, and deploying heavy security forces. In addition to the police, Rangers units have also been called in. So far, more than 250 PTI activists have been detained, and a large number of containers have been placed around Minar-e-Pakistan.
Roads leading to the Islamabad motorway from Lahore have been blocked with containers, causing significant disruptions at the Lahore-Sialkot motorway, Babu Sabu Interchange, and Thokar Niaz Baig.
Blocked Roads
The police have stationed personnel on the Azadi Flyover to manage potential unrest, while containers have been positioned to block roads near Data Darbar. As of now, the Deputy Commissioner has not issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the protest.
With the motorway closed, traffic is expected to increase on GT Road, leading to further difficulties for commuters.
Crackdown on PTI Activists
Yesterday, Lahore police declared the PTI activists arrested during the crackdown as “troublemakers.” Additionally, orders have been issued for the arrest of 1,590 more PTI members.
In Islamabad, the crackdown on PTI supporters has shown results. Ali Amin Gandapur’s convoy initially evaded obstacles but was met with heavy shelling near Katti Pahari in Hassan Abdal. The crackdown continued from D-Chowk to China Chowk, resulting in the arrests of PTI leader Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, and activist Azam Khan. Authorities have detained around 1,600 activists from the twin cities.
Section 144 Enforced
The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 in various cities, including Lahore, Mianwali, Rawalpindi, Sargodha, and Attock, banning all political gatherings, rallies, and protests.
In Lahore, Section 144 will remain in effect until October 8, while in Mianwali it will last until October 7, and in Rawalpindi, Sargodha, and Attock until October 6. Pillion riding has also been banned in Rawalpindi and Attock for Friday and Saturday.
Additionally, the government has deployed nine paramilitary Ranger companies to perform duties in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Attock on Saturday.
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