PTI Protesters Clash with Security Forces at D-Chowk, Islamabad

Protests by supporters of jailed opposition leader Imran Khan escalated into chaos at D-Chowk, a central area in Islamabad’s Red Zone. Demonstrators are demanding Khan’s release and the government’s resignation, leading to violent confrontations with security forces firing tear gas to disperse the crowd.

Tense Situation at D-Chowk

PTI protesters avoided barriers and gathered at D-Chowk, a symbolic location for political demonstrations surrounded by key government buildings like the Parliament House, Supreme Court, and the Prime Minister's Office.

Protesters climbed over containers placed as roadblocks, some using them as seats, while army personnel were stationed atop others.

Violence and Disruptions

Geo TV reported that police gunfire resulted in three fatalities and several injuries among protesters.

Internet services were disrupted across multiple cities in Punjab, including Multan, Gujarat, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Razanpur.

Government’s Stance

Punjab’s Home Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated efforts were made to negotiate with PTI leaders, offering them Sagjani as a protest site, but claimed an internal "secret leadership" is orchestrating the unrest.

Islamabad police have been instructed to restore order by any means necessary.

Accusations and Criticism

Information Minister Ataullah Tarar alleged that PTI is exploiting the situation, accusing Imran Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, of encouraging unrest and using monetary incentives to mobilize participants.

Tarar criticized the protesters, claiming children are being used as "pawns" in the demonstrations.

The volatile situation at D-Chowk underscores Pakistan’s escalating political tensions, with both sides trading accusations amidst an already unstable environment. The government’s measures to control the protests and the opposition’s resolve to continue their demonstrations suggest that a resolution remains elusive.