Islamabad – The federal government has strongly condemned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) latest protest in Islamabad, calling it “illegal and unnecessary.” Officials have accused PTI leaders of deliberately avoiding participation in the demonstrations by surrendering to the police and termed the protest a deliberate attempt to destabilize the nation.
Government’s Stance
Information Minister Ataullah Tarar stated during a visit to Islamabad that most PTI leaders were courting arrest to avoid involvement in the protest. “It seems the party leadership has no real intention of seeking the release of their leader [Imran Khan] from jail,” he remarked, emphasizing that any such matter should be resolved in court.
He further accused PTI of demanding undue concessions for Imran Khan’s release, which the government cannot provide. He stressed that life in Islamabad remains unaffected despite the protest, though some highways have been closed to maintain law and order.
Tarar also blamed PTI for causing economic damage to traders and harming Pakistan’s relations with friendly nations. He highlighted the party’s alleged history of creating chaos, vandalizing public property, and organizing disruptive protests, including the events of May 9.
Strict Measures in Place
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reassured citizens that law enforcement agencies were fully prepared to handle any unrest. Naqvi, who conducted an aerial survey of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Attock, emphasized that strict action would be taken against miscreants in accordance with the law.
He noted that a number of protesters were arrested at Faizabad interchange after attempting to disrupt security arrangements for the visiting Belarusian president.
Zero Tolerance for Violence
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif warned that the state would not allow any illegal activities or mob violence in the capital. He criticized PTI’s pattern of organizing protests during visits from foreign dignitaries, terming it a deliberate attempt to undermine Pakistan’s image internationally.
Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal echoed similar sentiments, accusing PTI of pursuing politics of agitation while neglecting public welfare. He asserted that citizens have grown weary of repeated protests and sit-ins, and today’s demonstration would also fail.
PTI’s Impact on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Amir Muqam condemned PTI’s neglect of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s worsening law and order situation, including issues in Kurram. He criticized the provincial government for using resources on protests instead of addressing public concerns, adding that the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have rejected PTI’s call for demonstrations.
Conclusion
The government has placed Islamabad on high alert, warning that any attempts to disrupt peace will be dealt with firmly. Authorities remain steadfast in their commitment to maintaining law and order while ensuring the safety and security of citizens.
