ISLAMABAD – Chaos erupted in Pakistan’s capital city Islamabad, home to over 1 million people, as tens of thousands of supporters of ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan marched into metropolis, clashing with security forces.
As the capital remains under tight lockdown, the federal government responded with security lockdown, internet blackouts, and roadblocks to prevent protesters from entering the city. The protesters led by Imran Khan’s wife and other PTI leaders are at D-Chowk – a key region near Jinnah Avenue and Constitution Avenue in the city.
Army Told to ‘Shoot on Sight’
The government announced deployment of armed forces under Article 245 of the Constitution in response to escalating security concerns in the capital city.
PTI Protest at D-Chowk
Supporters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have reached Islamabad’s D-Chowk, breaking through barricades and announcing plans for a sit-in until their demands are met.
Government Response
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that while the main PTI leadership is willing to engage in negotiations, a ‘hidden leadership’ within the party is preventing talks.
Rangers Personnel Killed
Late on Monday night, a speeding vehicle ran over four Rangers personnel stationed for security duties on Srinagar Highway, escalating tensions in the city.
PTI Protest: CCTV footage of attack on Rangers personnel surfaces
Internet, Social Media Disruptions
Islamabad residents are experiencing issues accessing the internet and social media apps, including difficulties with downloading and uploading via WhatsApp.
Section 144 Imposed
In addition to Islamabad, Section 144 has been enforced in Punjab and Balochistan provinces to prevent further unrest and maintain public order
Violence and Clashes
Security forces responded with heavy tear gas and live ammunition. The confrontation resulted in the deaths of at least four security personnel, including three Rangers and a police officer.
PTI protest led by Bushra Bibi reaches Zero Point amid clashes
PTI decries state force
PTI claims that two protesters were killed by Rangers’ live gunfire and several others were injured during the clashes.
PM Condemns violence
PM Shehbaz Sharif and top government officials condemned the violence, calling it as an attack under the guise of a peaceful protest and warned against bloodshed for political motives.
Stock Market Nosedives by 4000points
The political unrest caused a significant drop in the Pakistan Stock Exchange, which fell by 3,500 points amid the rising political uncertainty.
Petrol shortage may hit Islamabad, Rawalpindi amid PTI protest
Protest Location Dispute
Despite government offers to move the protest to a less sensitive area, Imran Khan’s party insisted on staging it at D-Chowk, a key location near state buildings in heart of city.
IHC Ruling
Islamabad High Court declared planned protest unlawful and directed the government to ensure law and order while minimizing disruption, especially during the Belarusian president’s visit.
Detentions
So far, thousands of PTI supporters have been arrested across the country, with authorities preparing for potential further unrest.
PTI protest: Army deployed in Islamabad with ‘shoot-on-sight order’
