Imran Khan Supporters Targeted: Protests in Islamabad Turn Deadly
Islamabad experienced one of its most violent protests in recent history as demonstrators accused the Pakistan Army and police of firing on them, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. The protesters, primarily supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, gathered in the capital on Tuesday, demanding his immediate release from jail. The unrest overwhelmed hospitals, as hundreds of injured protesters sought treatment and there were allegations of fatalities due to live ammunition.
Imran Khan Supporters Targeted: Protesters Confront Security Forces
The demonstrations erupted as thousands of Khan’s supporters, defying government orders, stormed Islamabad. The protesters aimed to reach the Red Zone, a susceptible area housing the parliament, Supreme Court, and the prime minister’s residence. Authorities deployed security forces, including the army and paramilitary units, with strict shoot-to-kill directives to prevent the demonstrators from advancing further.
Violent clashes broke out at D-Chowk, where protesters faced tear gas, rubber bullets, and, according to eyewitness accounts, live ammunition. Protesters set shipping containers on fire, while security forces responded with overwhelming force. By nightfall, a power blackout was imposed in the area, followed by a crackdown that pushed the demonstrators out of the capital.
Imran Khan Supporters Targeted: Allegations of Brutality and Fatalities
As the dust settled, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Khan’s political party, accused the authorities of committing atrocities. PTI leaders alleged that the police and army killed dozens of protesters during live firing. While officials have not verified the figures, a doctor on duty at a local hospital confirmed treating over 40 patients with gunshot wounds.
“At least seven people died, and four remain in critical condition,” the doctor said, speaking anonymously due to fear of reprisal. He further alleged attempts to suppress the truth, claiming that records of the dead and injured had been confiscated by government officials.
Bushra Bibi Emerges as a Figurehead
Bushra Bibi, Imran Khan’s wife and a prominent PTI figure, led the protest convoy into Islamabad. However, they forced her to leave the scene amidst the chaos. Her increasing role in PTI’s political activities highlights the party’s strategy to maintain public momentum during Khan’s imprisonment.
Gandapur Denies Rumors of Rift
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur denied reports of a rift with Bushra Bibi, dismissing them as baseless propaganda. Speaking to the media in Peshawar, Gandapur emphasized the party’s unified focus on securing Imran Khan’s release and reiterated their commitment to PTI’s objectives despite the political challenges.
PTI Halts Protest Amid Crackdown
On Wednesday, PTI announced that it would suspend its protest, citing the government’s “brutality” and claims of turning Islamabad into a “slaughterhouse.” By evening, authorities cleared Islamabad of all demonstrators and arrested nearly 1,000 protesters, according to Gandapur.
The Bigger Picture
The events mark a critical juncture in Pakistan’s ongoing political crisis. The allegations against the army and police have intensified scrutiny regarding the government’s response to dissent. At the same time, the protests underscore the unwavering support that Imran Khan continues to enjoy among his followers. As PTI accuses authorities of attempting to suppress records of the casualties, supporters are growing louder in their calls for transparency and accountability.
Future Implications
The clashes in Islamabad have cast a long shadow over Pakistan’s political landscape. The growing unrest and allegations of human rights violations raise concerns about the stability of the country. Whether the government can address the grievances of Khan’s supporters while maintaining order remains to be seen, but the protests have undoubtedly added fuel to an already volatile situation.
