PTI's March Towards Islamabad: A Protest at D-Chowk Underway
The Role of Social Media in the PTI Protest Movement
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by its founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan, is set to march towards Islamabad today for a protest at D-Chowk. Supporters have begun gathering at the Peshawar Motorway, answering the party's call to "break the shackles of slavery."
Imran Khan has urged citizens to join this movement, describing it as a fight for freedom and justice. Meanwhile, political tensions escalated as PTI leaders Aamir Dogar and Zain Qureshi were detained by Punjab Police at Qadirpurra Toll Plaza in Multan, according to Express News.
Government Countermeasures
In response to the march, the government has deployed heavy security forces, sealed roads, and placed barriers around Islamabad. Officials emphasized that court orders prohibit protests in the capital, warning of legal action against violators.
Containers have been positioned to block access to key areas, including D-Chowk, Islamabad Airport, and Red Zone locations such as government offices and sensitive buildings. Security personnel, including police, Rangers, and Frontier Constabulary (FC), have been stationed throughout the city to maintain order.
PTI’s Plans and Challenges
PTI leaders remain firm in their decision to protest at D-Chowk until their demands, including the release of Imran Khan, are met. Gandapur stated the party would use private machinery to clear roadblocks if necessary, signaling their resolve to proceed despite obstacles.
While Bushra Bibi, Imran Khan’s wife, has opted not to join the march, she will oversee convoys from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister's House.
Citywide Disruptions
Islamabad has been turned into a high-security zone. Major roads, such as the Srinagar Highway and GT Road, have been sealed, and public transport services, including the Metro Bus, have been partially suspended. Commuters and residents face significant disruptions, with entry and exit points like Zero Point and Faizabad Interchange blocked by containers.
Heightened Security Alerts
Hospitals have been placed on high alert, with extra staff and ambulances ready to handle emergencies. Additionally, a terrorism warning issued by the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) has further tightened security. Authorities conducted raids across Islamabad, arresting PTI members, while the Ministry of Interior announced potential internet shutdowns in high-risk areas to ensure safety.
Standoff with the Government
Efforts to negotiate a resolution have failed, with both the PTI and the government standing firm. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that public gatherings are restricted due to international delegations' visits, but PTI has shown no signs of stepping back.
As Islamabad braces for the march, the city remains on edge, with fears of escalating tensions and disruptions affecting daily life.
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