The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) showcased their unyielding determination by orchestrating protests in various parts of Pakistan on Friday, fervently demanding the release of their imprisoned leader Imran Khan. This demonstration of defiance persisted despite the Punjab government’s enforcement of Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), which prohibited rallies and sit-ins for seven days. In response, the police launched raids on the homes and offices of PTI leaders as part of their crackdown on the protests.
The day began with the Punjab police resuming raids on PTI leaders’ homes and offices in Lahore and other districts. Reports surfaced of raiding parties vandalizing furniture and other items in the homes of party leaders and workers. These incidents were shared on social media by the affected individuals.
Unfazed by the ban, PTI leaders and workers, standing united in their cause, took to the streets in various Punjab cities, brandishing party flags, banners, and placards while vociferously demanding Imran Khan’s release. The imposition of Section 144 was met with resolute criticism by PTI leaders, who appealed for the intervention of the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) after more than a dozen supporters were detained. The government’s action was also contested in the Lahore High Court.
In Lahore, rallies were staged in several constituencies, including PP-163, PP-174, and NA-129. PTI Punjab General Secretary Hammad Azhar stated that the people defied the ban, emphasizing the resistance to what was described as “de facto Martial Law” and “illegal Curfew” in Punjab.
Protests of a similar nature unfolded in numerous cities, including Sheikhupura, Faisalabad, Okara, Jhang, Burewala, Khanewal, Zafarwal, Vehari, and other regions. The Home Secretary justified the imposition of Section 144, citing a deteriorating law and order situation and potential security threats, suggesting that terrorists could exploit such gatherings.
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Amid the protests, the police conducted arrests in various locations, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Sahiwal, and Okara. The PTI accused the government of imposing Section 144 to sabotage their call for protests and urged the chief justice of Pakistan to seek clarification from Punjab’s chief minister, interior minister, and secretary.
In response to the crackdown, a citizen lodged a petition in the Lahore High Court, questioning the imposition of Section 144 and its impact on the right to hold political rallies. Furthermore, the PTI vociferously demanded accountability for the alleged derailing of Imran Khan’s government, stressing the imperative to foster a grassroots movement. The party expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s actions, condemning what was described as “a disgraceful act on the part of the entire Form-47 criminal government.”
Ultimately, it is crucial for the PTI to mobilize at the grassroots level and harness the same level of support it garnered immediately after the change in regime.
