Imran Khan Supporters Halt Protest Following Violent Crackdown

     

 Imran Khan Supporters Call Off Protests After Violent Crackdown in Islamabad

Supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan have temporarily called off their protests in Islamabad, a day after clashing with security forces in central Pakistan. The protests, led by Khan's party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), had escalated as demonstrators demanded Khan's release from prison. Despite initially vowing to stay in the capital until their demands were met, protesters faced intense resistance from police, including the use of tear gas and barriers.


The violence resulted in at least six deaths—four security officers and two civilians—during clashes that began on Sunday. PTI officials announced on Wednesday that the protests had been “temporarily suspended” due to the "brutality" of the government's crackdown. Police reports indicate over 500 arrests of PTI supporters, and several casualties were reported, though the exact details remain unverified.


Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, and PTI leader Ali Amin Gandapur were among the key figures leading the protests, with reports suggesting that they left Islamabad after the clashes. Despite the government's efforts to disperse the protesters, PTI has vowed to continue seeking justice for those killed in the violence and demands an investigation into the incidents.


The protests had escalated to D-Chowk, a central location in Islamabad known for political rallies, but by Tuesday evening, security forces had cleared the area, and the city was placed under lockdown. The unrest follows a period of political turmoil in Pakistan, with Khan still imprisoned on charges he claims are politically motivated. His party remains a significant force in the country’s political landscape, despite being banned from official participation in elections. The PTI has also disputed the results of the last election, claiming the vote was rigged.