Supporters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have begun arriving in groups at the rally site in Lahore, amid a heavy police presence and strict security measures along the route. Stalls selling PTI-branded caps and scarves have been set up, and thousands of chairs are in place at the venue in anticipation of the event.
Allegations have surfaced from PTI supporters claiming that police have started confiscating their lights, generators, and speakers, preventing them from reaching the rally site.
K-P Chief Minister Leads Convoy
A convoy led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur departed for Lahore, accompanied by party leaders and workers from southern districts and Peshawar City. The convoy, reported by *Express News*, traveled via the Swabi route and included prepared containers for Gandapur and other leaders, equipped with DJ music for party anthems.
A reception camp was set up at the Swabi Interchange to gather convoys from various regions before heading to Lahore. PTI workers, armed with sticks, were reportedly ready to face any obstacles along the way. Photos of these workers were shared by the chief minister in a WhatsApp group.
PTI leaders have voiced their concerns over police actions in Lahore. Provincial Assembly member Fazal Elahi asserted that “no force could stop them” from reaching the rally, urging supporters to be prepared. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Adviser Barrister Saif condemned recent police crackdowns, accusing the government of arresting 20 PTI workers for a corner meeting and warning that Maryam Nawaz would be held accountable for her “fascist tactics.” He called for respect for PTI’s right to peaceful assembly and adherence to standard operating procedures.
Government Resources Deployed Amid Criticism
Reports indicate that government resources, including cranes, ambulances, and fire brigades, have been allocated to support PTI’s activities, drawing criticism for the misuse of public funds for political purposes.
Arrest Warrants Issued for PTI Leaders
An anti-terrorism court in Islamabad issued non-bailable arrest warrants for Chief Minister Gandapur and several other PTI leaders earlier in the day. The court declared PTI leader Umar Tanveer Butt an absconder and denied Gandapur’s pre-arrest bail request related to a terrorism case. His lawyer sought an exemption for his appearance, which was dismissed by the court.
Legal Action for Detained Workers
Ahead of the rally, former provincial assembly member Zainab Umair filed a petition in the Lahore High Court seeking the release of all detained PTI workers. The petition argues that the detention orders issued across Punjab violate the law and the Constitution, requesting an annulment of the orders and the immediate release of the detained individuals.
Lahore has been tense since the eve of the rally, with reports of violent clashes between PTI supporters and police at Ring Road, Kahna, following the arrest of several party workers. This unrest led to roadblocks, tire burnings, and significant disruptions across the city.
Local sources report that police detained dozens of PTI workers and transported them to an undisclosed location. In response, outraged supporters gathered at Mini Market in Gulberg, blocking the main road and setting tires ablaze. A police spokesperson confirmed that the violence erupted near the Origa Centre during a routine police checkpoint.
