Thousands of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Protesters clashed with security forces as protesters defied roadblocks and tear gas while marching near Islamabad’s Zero Point. The protests, aimed at demanding the release of Imran Khan from prison, turned violent, leading to the deaths of several Rangers and police officers, with numerous injuries on both sides.
In response, the government invoked Article 245, preparing to call in the military if necessary. Thousands were detained ahead of the march, with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi suggesting that the protests be moved to the outskirts of Islamabad.
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Led by Bushra Bibi, the protesters ignored the lockdown imposed around the capital, escalating tensions. Addressing the large crowd from a container, Bushra called for peace and pledged that the protesters would not leave D-Chowk until Imran Khan was released.
As the PTI supporters arrived at Zero Point, they began marching toward D-Chowk for a planned sit-in. With a heavy presence of law enforcement near D-Chowk, tensions are expected to rise. However, Bushra Bibi stated that they would avoid storming the Red Zone and would hold a peaceful sit-in at D-Chowk.
In her speech, she urged the protesters to stay calm and peaceful, appealing to authorities to ensure the safety of all participants, including children and the elderly. “We expect everyone to exercise restraint and cooperate in maintaining peace,” she concluded.
In response to the escalating unrest, the Pakistani government invoked Article 245, which gives the military the authority to step in if the situation worsens.
