The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) announced plans to expand its movement to Punjab, issuing a two-week deadline for the release of its jailed party founder, Imran Khan. During a large rally in the Sangjani area of Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur warned that if Khan was not released within one to two weeks, the party would take action themselves, and he would personally lead the effort.
The rally, which had been postponed twice due to revoked permissions, finally took place with a no-objection certificate (NOC) granted earlier in the week. Despite tight security and roadblocks, PTI supporters managed to gather in large numbers, with multiple caravans moving towards Islamabad under the leadership of Gandapur. The Islamabad district administration had placed the city on high alert, citing the “Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Bill, 2024,” which was signed into law by President Asif Ali Zardari the day before the rally.
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PTI leader Hammad Azhar addressed the crowd, suggesting that the restrictions placed by the government showed fear of Khan and his supporters. He also mentioned the party’s intention to launch a movement in Punjab, currently governed by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Other party leaders echoed this sentiment, calling for further rallies in Punjab to demand Khan’s release and uphold the Constitution’s supremacy.
The rally faced a deadline of 7 pm set by the authorities, and when PTI failed to conclude on time, the Islamabad district administration initiated a crackdown, including teargas shelling, to disperse the crowd. This led to clashes between PTI workers and the police, resulting in injuries on both sides. Additional forces were summoned, and an order was issued for action against those violating the rally’s rules.
Several PTI leaders criticized the government’s actions, accusing it of attempting to suppress the party through force and roadblocks. The authorities defended their stance, stating that PTI violated the conditions of the NOC. Meanwhile, explosives were discovered near the rally venue, leading to further investigations.
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The rally concluded with PTI leadership, including Gandapur, continuing to speak out against the government, calling the situation a fight for justice and vowing to keep their movement alive until their demands were met.