The Punjab government has formally requested military assistance to secure sensitive buildings and key locations in Lahore, as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) prepares for a major protest at Minar-e-Pakistan. This comes as the city braces for possible unrest, with the government already deploying heavy security forces across six districts.
According to officials, the request mirrors a similar move in Islamabad, where the army has been deployed to maintain order amid escalating tensions with PTI supporters. The military will take control of vital infrastructure, including airports, as well as protect sensitive areas throughout the city. The Home Department of Punjab confirmed that a letter had been sent to the federal government requesting troops.
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Ahead of the protest, authorities sealed off roads leading to Minar-e-Pakistan, placing containers at key access points to block entry to the site. This prompted PTI to announce six alternative locations for their demonstrations, including Data Darbar and Ravi Bridge, while others are yet to be confirmed.
The situation has led to significant disruptions across Lahore, with residents adjusting their daily routines as law enforcement set up checkpoints and blocked central roads. Over 250 PTI activists have been arrested in a crackdown, and Section 144 has been imposed, banning political gatherings in Lahore until October 8.
Meanwhile, Islamabad and Rawalpindi continue to face a crackdown on PTI workers, with reports of shelling and mass arrests, including the detention of PTI leader Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan. The federal government has also called in the army to maintain order during the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit and to counter the planned PTI protests.
