Location: Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
Government Stance on Protests
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari declared on Sunday that the state would not give in to those attempting to create unrest, responding to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) so-called “final showdown.”
Situation in Lahore
Speaking at a press conference, Bokhari dismissed claims of widespread unrest, asserting that life in Lahore continues as normal. “People are going about their daily routines, celebrating peacefully, and the supposed protests are largely limited to online chatter,” she stated.
Criticism of PTI Leadership
Bokhari criticized PTI’s leadership for exaggerating the scale of the protests, remarking, “Those claiming to bring revolution are not even present. The ones urging the nation to wake up are themselves disengaged from the protests.” She accused PTI of involving government employees in their demonstrations, warning that such attempts to incite chaos would fail.
Security and Threat Alerts
The minister also highlighted security concerns in the region, referencing a recent threat alert from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. She mentioned the arrest of three individuals implicated in terrorist activities in Islamabad’s F10 sector and Balochistan, stressing the government’s vigilance against threats.
Public Response to Protests
According to Bokhari, the protests in Punjab have failed to gain public support, with fewer than a thousand participants reported. She emphasized the Punjab government’s confidence in maintaining order, underscoring the lack of substantial public involvement in the demonstrations.
