In Pakistan’s Punjab province, despite the administration banning rallies and sit-ins for seven days, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters on Friday, staged demonstrations across the province demanding the release of their imprisoned leader and founder, Imran Khan, reported Dawn.
Ahead of the planned nationwide demonstrations, the authorities conducted raids in PTI leader’s homes and offices in Lahore and other districts.
In several cities of Pakistan’s Punjab, PTI leaders and workers mobilized, waving party flags, carrying banners, and chanting slogans supporting Khan’s freedom.
Similar demonstrations also gained momentum in Jhang, Burewala, Khanewal, Zafarwal, Sheikhupura, Faisalabad, Okara, Vehari, and other areas despite the ban’s enforcement under Section 144.
Home Secretary Noorul Amin Mengal had said the ban has been put in place due to ‘security concerns’ and the risk of ‘terrorist attacks’ on large gatherings.
Alongside the raids, incidents of arrests were reported. Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, Omar Ayub, criticized the imposition of Section 144 as a calculated attempt to sabotage PTI’s demonstrations, urging judicial scrutiny into the decision by Punjab’s chief minister, interior minister, and secretary.
Khan’s party termed the government action “unconstitutional” and blamed authorities for creating a “lawless environment” in the country.
The situation remains tense as Khan’s supporters face off against legal and governmental restrictions, underscoring ongoing tensions between the ruling administration and opposition forces in the political landscape of Pakistan, reported Dawn.