Pakistan police clashed with supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan as they marched towards Islamabad on Sunday in a dramatic escalation of political tensions. The march is part of a broader campaign by Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, demanding early elections, which they said the current administration did not deserve legitimacy.

Border Clashes Intensify

Protests have increased at various entry points to Islamabad as PTI supporters tried to overcome security barricades. Policemen used tear gas and baton charges to disperse protesters as they claimed the protestors were creating a harassment situation. Some arrests have been made, and some reports of injuries on both sides.

Authorities have blocked major roads leading to the capital, causing traffic chaos and sparking criticism from human rights groups who condemned the excessive use of force.

PTI’s Demands and Government Response

‘Imran Khan, speaking to his supporters from afar, pledged to keep up his fight till his demands were met. “The people of Pakistan deserve free and fair elections,” he said. PTI alleges that the government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif collated into power by a “foreign-backed conspiracy” following Khan’s oyster via a no-confidence vote in 2022.’

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The government dismissed the allegations against him, stating that Khan was trying to destabilize the country and cause unrest for political reasons. Officials said that if protesters did try to enter the capital city of Islamabad without permission, the government would take strict action.

Islamabad under Lockdown

Islamabad’s administration declared a high-security alert in view of the march; heavy police presence and deployment of paramilitary forces. Containers have been placed at strategic locations to block access to sensitive areas, including the Red Zone, home to government institutions and foreign embassies.

Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah said, “We will not let any such mob dictate terms to the state. Law and order will be maintained at all costs.”

Massive Fallout

Clashes are disturbing day-to-day life. Schools, businesses, and public transport are stalled in major cities. Social media is uploading videos and images of the clashes, which have caused a mixed reaction about the PTI movement.

The political crisis would also raise problems for Pakistan’s fragile economy since imbalances could impact investor confidence and ultimately derail the government’s efforts at curbing inflation and unemployment.’

What’s Next?

With tensions continuing to escalate, all eyes are on how both sides navigate the standoff. Khan has called for nationwide protests if the government refuses to announce a date for elections, while the authorities remain adamant about upholding public order.

‘With no resolution in sight, the coming days could prove decisive for Pakistan’s political future, as the showdown in Islamabad underscores deep divisions in Pakistan’s political landscape.’