Violence Erupts in Islamabad: Four Dead as Imran Khan’s Supporters Clash with Police

At Least Four Killed as Former PM Imran Khan’s Supporters Clash with Authorities in Islamabad

Islamabad: Chaos erupted in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, as supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan stormed the city, leading to violent clashes with security forces. At least four people have been reported dead, and dozens injured in the escalating unrest. The turmoil underscores the growing tensions between Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and the ruling government.

Background

The unrest follows months of political instability and legal battles involving Imran Khan. The former prime minister, ousted through a no-confidence vote in April 2022, has been at odds with the current coalition government led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Khan, who has been pushing for early elections, accuses the government of corruption and mishandling the economy. The recent protests were sparked by Khan’s call for his supporters to march to Islamabad, demanding justice and transparency.

The March Turns Violent

On Saturday, thousands of PTI supporters gathered near the capital, intending to stage a sit-in outside government buildings. As protesters attempted to breach police barricades, security forces responded with tear gas and water cannons. The confrontation quickly turned violent, with some demonstrators reportedly carrying sticks and stones.

Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes in central Islamabad. “It felt like a battlefield,” said one resident. “There were loud explosions, tear gas everywhere, and people running for cover.”

Four individuals were confirmed dead during the clashes, including a police officer. Over 40 others, including civilians and law enforcement personnel, have been hospitalized with injuries.

Government's Response

Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah condemned the violence, blaming Imran Khan for inciting unrest. “The government will not allow anyone to destabilize the country under the guise of protests,” he stated during a press conference.

Sanaullah confirmed that several protesters were arrested for vandalizing public property and assaulting police officers. Authorities have vowed to take strict action against those involved in the violence.

PTI’s Stance

The PTI leadership, however, accused the government of suppressing peaceful dissent. In a statement, Khan called the deaths of his supporters a “tragedy” and criticized the government for its heavy-handed approach.

“The people of Pakistan have the right to protest against injustice. This regime is trying to silence our voices through brutality,” Khan said in a televised address.

Impact on Pakistan’s Political Climate

The incident marks another chapter in Pakistan’s deepening political crisis. Analysts warn that the violence could further polarize the country and exacerbate existing divisions.

Dr. Hasan Raza, a political analyst, noted, “This level of unrest is dangerous. It not only disrupts law and order but also damages Pakistan’s international image at a time when the economy is already struggling.”

The unrest has also raised concerns over potential military intervention, a recurring theme in Pakistan’s history. The army, which wields significant influence, has so far remained neutral in the current political standoff.

The Road Ahead

As the dust settles in Islamabad, the question remains: what’s next for Pakistan? Imran Khan’s supporters have vowed to continue their protests, while the government appears determined to maintain order at all costs.

Observers believe that dialogue between the two sides is the only way to avoid further escalation. However, with trust at an all-time low, achieving a peaceful resolution seems increasingly unlikely.

For now, the streets of Islamabad remain tense, as the nation watches to see how this crisis unfolds.