Private Schools Closure Amid PTI Protest at D-Chowk
The private schools’ association announced that all private schools in Islamabad will remain closed on Friday (tomorrow) due to concerns over the safety of students during the planned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest at D-Chowk. This decision follows PTI’s plan to hold a demonstration calling for the “independence of the judiciary” and the release of its chairman, Imran Khan, from jail.
Waheed Khan, General Secretary of the private schools’ association, emphasized that children’s safety is the top priority, highlighting that students have already faced difficulties due to road blockades earlier in the day.
PTI Protest and Government Response
The Islamabad district administration has already enforced Section 144 and the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act, 2024, to regulate public assemblies in the capital. In response to PTI’s call for protests, the authorities have started sealing parts of Islamabad by placing containers to block major routes, including Murree Road, leading to Faizabad Interchange and Islamabad Expressway.
Additional blockades have been set up across the city to prevent protesters from gathering in the capital, while the Motorway Police have closed Motorway M-1 at Swabi Interchange. Furthermore, the metro bus service from Saddar to IJP Road will remain suspended, and all Khidmat Markaz Centres and driving license branches in Islamabad will be closed for the day.
Deployment of Security Forces
The city is on high alert, with over 4,000 security personnel deployed in Rawalpindi to maintain peace. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi warned PTI against storming the capital, urging the party’s leadership to reconsider their protest plans. Naqvi stressed that the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, scheduled for October 15-16, and the visit of the Malaysian prime minister are of critical importance to the country.
Naqvi further stated that the country’s interest must be prioritized over political objectives, noting that a protest during such important diplomatic events could harm Pakistan’s image. He also reiterated that paramilitary forces, the army, and Rangers have been called in to ensure security, with strict measures in place to deal with any breach of law.
KP Government’s Stance
Despite federal warnings, sources indicate that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister, Ali Amin Gandapur, plans to lead multiple convoys from Peshawar to Islamabad in support of PTI’s protest. The federal government has reportedly asked Gandapur to cancel the demonstration to avoid any disruptions during the visit of foreign dignitaries.
However, provincial officials, including Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, denied any formal contact with federal authorities, insisting that the protest would proceed as planned. Gandapur has reportedly stated that the protest would only be called off upon Imran Khan’s request.
Potential Consequences
Naqvi cautioned that any misstep during the Malaysian premier’s visit could have lasting negative effects on the country. He warned that anyone involved in the protest should not expect leniency and urged PTI to review its call for a demonstration at D-Chowk. He emphasized that the security forces are prepared to handle the situation if protesters move forward with their plans.
In conclusion, Naqvi reminded PTI that the party represents Pakistan and should avoid actions that could tarnish the nation’s image during this crucial period.