PTI Convoy Led by Bushra Bibi Reaches Zero Point Amid Clashes
Ongoing Clashes in Islamabad
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) convoy, led by Bushra Bibi, wife of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, reached Zero Point, sparking intense clashes with law enforcement.
- Police Action: Tear gas shelling by police reached Abpara Chowk, forcing shop closures in the market.
- Worker Resistance: PTI workers retaliated by pelting stones, leading to escalating tensions.
Deployment of Forces
To manage the escalating situation, security forces have been heavily mobilized:
- Additional Personnel: 1,000 police officers were called from Rawalpindi to assist.
- Rangers and Military: Reinforcements were dispatched to strategic locations, including D-Chowk and China Chowk.
Attempts to Block PTI Convoy
The authorities initially attempted to block PTI workers at the G-10 signal for two hours.
- The blockade failed due to fierce resistance, prompting security forces to retreat to G-9 Signal on Srinagar Highway.
Bushra Bibi Insists on D-Chowk
Despite negotiations for an alternative protest site, Bushra Bibi remains adamant about marching to D-Chowk:
- She cited instructions from Imran Khan to reach D-Chowk “at all costs.”
- Bushra Bibi accused “conspiratorial elements” of trying to derail their plans.
Leadership Struggles Within PTI
Internal divisions within PTI are hampering decision-making:
- Central Leadership: PTI’s senior leaders have struggled to finalize the sit-in location.
- Ali Amin Gandapur: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister expressed difficulties in coordinating workers for the protest.
- Negotiation Stalemate: PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar has been unable to resolve the impasse.
Imran Khan’s Video Message
In a crucial meeting, Imran Khan recorded a message outlining the next steps for his supporters:
- The message was conveyed to Bushra Bibi, Ali Amin Gandapur, and other leaders.
- Government Proposal: The video reportedly included Khan’s agreement to one of the government’s proposals, hinting at a possible compromise.
Next Steps
Sources indicate that the PTI leadership, after reviewing Imran Khan’s message, may soon announce their strategy. However, with Bushra Bibi firm on reaching D-Chowk, a peaceful resolution remains uncertain.
This developing situation continues to test the resolve of both the government and PTI amid growing unrest in Islamabad.