PTI to hold protest today as administration increases security

The Punjab provincial government has imposed a ban on all public gatherings and deployed security forces throughout the city in an attempt to prevent protests organized by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in Rawalpindi.

The PTI originally had planned a rally at Liaquat Bagh, but due to government restrictions and speculations that the public rally will be relocated to the suburbs, party founder Imran Khan changed the decision saying party will hold protest instead of jalsa.

PTI Punjab acting president Hammad Azhar announced via video that the party would still hold a “massive but peaceful” gathering at 2 PM, urging supporters to arrive early, as their previous event in Lahore faced police intervention for exceeding the allotted time.

Rawalpindi Police, Rangers and Punjab Constabulary has made extensive security measures, including blocking roads with containers and barbed wire, effectively laying siege to Rawalpindi.

Section 144 has been enforced, prohibiting all forms of assembly and displaying weapons, following requests from local deputy commissioners due to concerns about potential unrest during the PTI protest.

Deputy Commissioner Dr. Hassan Waqar Cheema stated that his administration is working with local police to maintain peace and order, while six companies of Pakistan Rangers have been deployed in support of local administrations of Attock and Rawalpindi.

The Rangers will remain in the area until Sunday.

However, local traders expressing their frustration over the potential impact of the protest on their businesses said government should specified protest areas to minimize disruption.

The ongoing demonstrations, citing past protests by various groups, have severely affected commerce in the area, Traders’ Association President Shahid Ghafoor Paracha said.