ISLAMABAD: Supporters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) launched countrywide protests on Tuesday, following a call by the party’s co-founder and jailed former prime minister Imran Khan. The demonstrations mark two years since Khan's imprisonment and come amid a heightened crackdown on PTI leadership.
In Lahore, over six PTI members of the Punjab Assembly were arrested, including Deputy Opposition Leader Moin Qureshi. Other detained MPAs include Farukh Javed Moon, Colonel Shoaib, Nadeem Sadiq Dogar, Khawaja Salahuddin, Aminullah Khan, and Iqbal Khattak. PTI claims more than 300 workers have also been arrested across the city, with security forces raiding the homes of several party leaders.
Protests were seen in multiple cities. In Lahore, PTI leader Shaukat Basra led a major rally through key routes, drawing large crowds chanting in support of Imran Khan. In Okara, Mehr Abdul Sattar headed a motorcycle rally demanding Khan’s release. Convoys from various areas converged to show unity.
In District Mohmand, the Insaf Youth Wing launched a protest convoy even before the official announcement, reflecting a growing grassroots movement. In Sheikhupura, MPA Waqas Mehmood Maan, who also leads PTI's Kisan Wing in Punjab, mobilised a protest with a large number of farmers.
On social media, PTI’s Punjab wing alleged that police targeted former MNA Aliya Hamza Malik's vehicle, injuring her. They also accused authorities of suppressing peaceful demonstrations.
Former NA Deputy Speaker Qasim Khan Suri claimed overnight raids occurred at PTI leaders' residences, with CCTV cameras being destroyed by individuals in plain clothes.
Punjab Inspector General Dr. Usman Anwar, in a statement, urged people not to criticise the police, highlighting their role in ensuring public safety.
In Lahore, PTI aims to stage major demonstrations and is reportedly working on a contingency plan in case of disruptions. PTI Lahore President Imtiaz Shaikh said the protest strategy involves multiple city locations.
Meanwhile, Rawalpindi has been placed under tight security with over 4,000 police officers deployed. Authorities have implemented Section 144, especially around Adiala Jail. Riot forces, surveillance systems, and police pickets have been activated to prevent any unrest.
