Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur addressed PTI supporters at D-Chowk, asserting their unwavering resolve to remain until party chief Imran Khan directs otherwise.
Ali Amin Gandapur: "We Won’t Leave Until Imran Khan Commands"
Speaking to a charged crowd, he criticized the government’s "authoritarian tactics" but emphasized a commitment to a peaceful sit-in.
"This is our country, and we’re here to free it. No one can impose their decisions on us," he declared, rallying the crowd with slogans to energize supporters.
Bushra Bibi Leads PTI Convoy Amid Army Control at D-Chowk
Meanwhile, a convoy led by Bushra Bibi, Imran Khan’s spouse, moved from Zero Point towards Jinnah Avenue, with PTI supporters defying police barricades.
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The Pakistan Army has assumed control of D-Chowk, with heavy contingents deployed at key locations, including Parliament House and the Supreme Court. Violent clashes between protesters and law enforcement continue, marked by intense tear gas shelling and stone-pelting by protesters.
Authorities have ordered the closure of major marketplaces, including Aabpara and Super Market, and removed vehicles from adjacent roads as part of heightened security measures.
Ata Tarar: "PTI Leadership Aims for Bloodshed"
Federal Information Minister Ata Tarar accused the PTI of planning violence. Speaking to the media, he said, "PTI leaders want to shed blood to push their agenda, but the state won’t respond in kind. Instead of putting poor workers at risk, PTI leaders should lead the protests themselves."
Highlighting the presence of Belarus’ president in Pakistan for bilateral agreements, he criticized protesters for hindering national progress while engaging in violent actions.
Mohsin Naqvi: "A Hidden Hand Fuels Chaos"
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, after visiting D-Chowk, blamed a “hidden hand” for orchestrating the unrest. He stated, "PTI leadership initially sought dialogue, but this hidden element has other intentions." He warned PTI of potential betrayals within its ranks and encouraged restraint, reiterating that law enforcement had full discretion to handle the situation.
Military Deployed in Islamabad with ‘Shoot on Sight’ Orders
Following the deaths of four Rangers personnel and two police officers in clashes, the army was deployed under Article 245. Military troops are now stationed at D-Chowk, Parliament House, and the Supreme Court, with orders to neutralize agitators on sight.
Security sources reported that the violent confrontations have left several Rangers and police officials injured. The government has vowed to take a hard stance against those threatening public order.
Bushra Bibi: "Hold the Line Until Imran Khan Speaks"
Addressing protesters, Bushra Bibi reiterated Imran Khan’s directives, urging supporters to hold their ground peacefully until Khan himself provided further instructions. She emphasized avoiding violence, calling for a disciplined sit-in at D-Chowk as per the party’s strategy.
Toshakhana and Other Court Cases Delayed Amid Road Closures
Legal proceedings, including the high-profile Toshakhana 2 case, were postponed due to road blockades in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The protests have disrupted court schedules, adding to the city’s chaos.
CCTV Footage Exposes Hit-and-Run on Rangers
Disturbing CCTV footage from November 26 shows a PTI protester’s vehicle ramming into Rangers personnel, injuring several on duty. The incident occurred at 2:44 AM, showcasing the violent undercurrents of the ongoing demonstrations.
Tear Gas Shelling Engulfs Protesters and Markets
Intense tear gas shelling at D-Chowk spread as far as Aabpara, forcing the closure of shops and affecting bystanders. Reinforcements from Rawalpindi police and Rangers were dispatched to control the situation, with ongoing clashes at key locations like China Chowk and Srinagar Highway.
Imran Khan’s Video Message Sparks Debate
Sources revealed that PTI Chairman Imran Khan recently proposed an alternative protest location to Bushra Bibi, but the suggestion was dismissed. Bushra Bibi argued that “conspirators” were attempting to redirect the protest to dilute its impact. She affirmed the party’s decision to remain steadfast at D-Chowk.
Current Situation at a Glance
The situation in Islamabad remains tense, with security forces stationed on container barricades and protests escalating near government institutions. Calls for calm echo from local mosques, urging protesters to refrain from violence. As clashes continue, the city’s nerve center remains a battleground, testing the resolve of both PTI supporters and state authorities.
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18 Apr, 2025