Islamabad, November 26, 2024 – The Ministry of Interior has deployed the Pakistan Army in Islamabad under Article 245 of the Constitution to address escalating security concerns following violent clashes between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters and law enforcement. The protests, aimed at demanding the release of PTI leader Imran Khan, have led to several casualties among security personnel.
Deployment and measures
The deployment follows violent demonstrations by PTI supporters, including a procession from Chungi Number 26 to D-Chowk. Protesters clashed with security forces, defying barricades and tear gas. Authorities have authorized stringent measures to maintain order, including the imposition of curfews and, if necessary, shooting rioters on sight.
Enhanced security measures are in place across Islamabad’s red zone, with Rangers stationed at strategic points. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi warned of further action, including imposing curfews, if protesters attempt to cross into sensitive areas like D-Chowk.
Casualties among security personnel
The situation escalated when protesters rammed a vehicle into Rangers personnel on the Srinagar Highway, martyring four Rangers officials and two policemen. Armed individuals also attacked security forces in Rawalpindi’s Chungi No. 26 area, injuring a Ranger, who remains in critical condition at CMH Rawalpindi.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, calling it an act of extremism disguised as a peaceful protest. He directed authorities to identify and prosecute those responsible while ensuring the best medical care for injured security personnel.
Protest led by Bushra Bibi
PTI protesters, led by Bushra Bibi, defied lockdown measures and gathered in large numbers at Zero Point before marching toward D-Chowk for a sit-in. Addressing the gathering, Bushra Bibi emphasized the peaceful nature of their protest and urged participants to remain calm and cooperative. She vowed not to leave D-Chowk until Imran Khan is released, while assuring authorities that the sit-in would not encroach on the red zone.
Government’s stance
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi criticized PTI’s approach, accusing the party of seeking chaos and using violence to advance their agenda. He revealed that the government had offered an alternative site at Sangjani for the sit-in, but PTI had yet to confirm its decision.
Naqvi reiterated that no protests are permitted in D-Chowk, citing the visit of the Belarusian president as a factor in heightened security concerns. He warned protesters against crossing the red line, stating that law enforcement would take “extreme steps” if necessary.
Sindh government condemns violence
Sindh government spokesperson Saadia Javed condemned the attacks on security forces and media personnel, describing them as violations of democratic principles. She paid tribute to the martyred security officials and called for restraint and adherence to the rule of law.
