Islamabad:
In response to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) call for a protest at D-Chowk, Islamabad, significant political and administrative movements are underway across the country. Here are the latest developments:
PTI Social Media Team Updates
• “Selective Arrests Unacceptable”
PTI officials Aamir Dogar and Zain Qureshi were arrested before the protests began. The social media team urged supporters to mobilize, saying, “If caravans do not emerge, these are selective arrests.”
• Major Caravans on the Move
• From South Punjab: Led by Zartaj Gul and Aun Abbas Bappi, a massive convoy with hundreds of vehicles is en route to D-Chowk via Khanewal Road.
• From Karak: Another large caravan, headed by Shahid Khattak and Major (R) Sajjad Barkowal, includes thousands of participants.
• Creative Routes Taken
Due to roadblocks, citizens in Pind Dadan Khan are crossing the River Jhelum using boats to reach the protest site.
Police on High Alert
• Karachi Police Recall Leaves: Additional IG Karachi, Javed Alam Odho, canceled leaves for all officers, ordering their presence on duty. Investigation officers and clerical staff were also instructed to report to stations.
• Road Closures in Rawalpindi:
Adiala Jail’s surrounding routes have been completely sealed, with heavy police deployment causing distress for residents.
Convoys from Across the Country
• Southern Punjab: Shoaib Basra leads a convoy from Fort Abbas and Haroonabad.
• KP to Punjab: PTI convoys, including one led by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, are entering Punjab despite heavy resistance.
• Islamabad Approach: Convoys from Mianwali, led by Barrister Umair Niazi, and others from Sargodha, have reached key locations near the capital.
Clashes and Arrests
• Faizabad Bridge Under Siege: Police have begun tear-gas shelling as PTI supporters gather in increasing numbers. Arrests are underway.
• Protests in Lahore: PTI supporters flooded Ferozepur Road, chanting slogans and defying local police.
Internet Shutdown and High-Level Statements
• Digital Blackout: Internet services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi have been suspended as part of the government’s strategy to control information.
• President Arif Alvi: Participating in the Peshawar caravan, the former president stated, “The government must release Imran Khan; there is no alternative.”
• Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi: Denying widespread unrest, he claimed, “The situation across Punjab and Pakistan is normal; only KP supporters are active.”
Police and Administrative Measures
• Islamabad Sealed Off: Over 70 checkpoints, with containers, blockades, and heavy police presence, have turned Rawalpindi into a “container city.”
• Rangers Deployed: Additional forces have been stationed at sensitive locations to prevent clashes.
Unique Protest Tactics
In Faisalabad, PTI supporters disguised themselves as a wedding procession to evade police but were arrested after inspection.
Conclusion
PTI’s protest call has led to widespread mobilization, road closures, and clashes. With the government adamant on maintaining order and PTI supporters determined to press forward, the situation remains volatile. Authorities have declared Islamabad a high-security zone as the protest escalates.
