Former Prime Minister Imran Khan's supporters have prepared a large gathering in Pakistan's capital Islamabad to demand his release. But now the ruling government of the country is desperate to stop this march. For this, besides taking strict security measures in Islamabad, mobile and internet services have been suspended in several areas of the city. And major roads in Islamabad have been blocked by shipping containers.
Al-Jazeera reported on Sunday that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party led by Imran Khan has called for this final nationwide movement. The party is demanding the release of Imran Khan and other arrested party leaders and the resignation of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif's government.
In this situation, a statement from the Islamabad Police has said that any kind of assembly has been banned in the city. A large number of police and paramilitary forces equipped with anti-riot equipment have been deployed.
Meanwhile, PTI leader Ali Amin Gandapur said in a video message that on the orders of Imran Khan, they plan to stay in Islamabad until their demands are met. Ali Amin urged supporters to gather near 'De Chowk' area of the city. The area known as the 'Red Zone' of Islamabad houses the National Parliament of Pakistan, various important government offices, embassies and offices of international organizations.
Al-Jazeera journalist Kamal Haider from Islamabad reported that all major highways around the city were closed. In this situation, there were reports that some PTI supporters used boats to cross the road blockade.
Global internet watchdog NetBlocks said that WhatsApp and other social media platforms have been restricted in Pakistan in view of the gathering of PTI supporters.
It should be noted that Imran Khan has been accused in several cases since he was ousted through a vote of no confidence in 2022. Several serious charges have been brought against him, including terrorism. However, Imran Khan's party claims that these allegations are politically motivated.
Imran Khan's popularity in Pakistan has increased in recent years. His arrest has led to massive protests across the country. Following his first arrest in May 2023, his supporters allegedly attacked state buildings and military installations.
Time will tell how the ongoing lockdown and agitation in Islamabad will be resolved.
