PTI Islamabad protest: 'Final call' fizzles out after government action

'Afghan citizens must have NOC to stay in Islamabad after December 31,' Mohsin Naqvi

Federal Minister for Interior, Mohsin Naqvi, has stated that after December 31, no Afghan citizen will be allowed to stay in Islamabad without an NOC.

During a visit to the under-construction F-8 underpass site in the federal capital, Mohsin Naqvi spoke to the media, saying that Islamabad has returned to normal. The target for the flyover and underpass is 60 days, and the F-9 road will be opened soon.

He further commented that since the protesters fled, there has been an uproar about the number of bodies in certain hospitals. "I asked them to name one of their dead, but they couldn’t find a way to hide their embarrassment. I am asking the protesters, tell us the name of the person who died," he said.

"We will submit a comprehensive report to the High Court regarding the protesters."

Later, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and DG Rangers Punjab, Major General Muhammad Atif bin Akram, visited PIMS, where they inquired about the health of Rangers, FC, and police officers and personnel injured in the attack by miscreants.

The Interior Minister and DG Rangers Punjab visited the injured officers and personnel individually, asking about their well-being and praising their courage. In their conversation with the injured, they said, "You are the heroes of the nation; you thwarted the miscreants' plans. We are proud of your bravery. Despite the chaos, you demonstrated patience and endurance."

'So-called famous revolution was seen running on the streets of Islamabad' says Azma Bukhari

While addressing a press conference in Lahore, Azma Bukhari remarked that calls to Islamabad were made five times, but no one paid attention to them except for a few government employees from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P).

Everyone else ignored this "jihad" call. Even the media showed the truth and did not fall prey to propaganda.

As soon as the lights went out, the revolution fled. This was a failed attempt to repeat May 9, but the state responded excellently.

The Information Minister stated that two civilians were killed, and 20 were injured in Islamabad. 

She further commented on the social media discussions surrounding Bushra Bibi, claiming that she fled yesterday despite making promises to people that she wouldn’t leave without Khan.

She added that yesterday, Gandapur was beaten with sticks and verbally abused; protesters even punctured his car tyres to prevent him from escaping.

Azma Bukhari criticised Bushra Bibi, saying her lack of literacy and inexperience had destroyed the politics of the PTI founder. She added, “You cannot become a political woman through amulets and spells.”

Protesters lacked basic amenities like food and water, while Bushra Bibi and Gandapur were eating burgers. Additionally, blankets from K-P’s PDMA were used by the protesters.

Azma Bukhari mentioned that a Belarusian delegation was present in Islamabad, saying, “Imagine the disgrace the country must have faced in front of them.” She added that the party and its leaders should now feel ashamed, as they expected millions to arrive, yet even the leadership abandoned their supporters.

Chief Commissioner, IG Islamabad to enforce security clearance for outsiders

Islamabad’s Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa and Inspector General of Police Ali Nasir vowed to crack down on violent activities disguised as protests, labelling such actions as terrorism.

Speaking at a press conference, Randhawa announced plans to prevent unauthorised outsiders from residing in the capital without security clearance. 

“Outsiders will not be allowed to stay in Islamabad without proper security clearance,” he reiterated.“All roads leading to and from Islamabad remain open, and routine activities continue without disruption,” Randhawa said. “No one will be allowed to challenge the state’s authority.”

He noted that while containers used for blockades had been removed, security checks and patrolling would persist. Protesters accused of attacking journalists prompted officials to relocate media representatives from the area. “When protesters attack police, damage property, and use weapons, it is no longer a protest but terrorism,” he said.

Nasir revealed that 71 security personnel were injured during clashes, with 52 hurt in a single day, including 26 Rangers. He claimed that the violence was premeditated, involving state-level resources from one province.

“Tear gas shells were manufactured, large fans were built to blow smoke towards security personnel, and protesters wore masks and carried weapons,” Nasir said, adding that 39 firearms had been seized.

'PTI protest will continue until Imran Khan calls it off,' K-P CM Gandapur

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has vowed that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) protest movement will persist until party chairman Imran Khan gives the signal to stop.

Speaking at a press conference in Mansehra, Gandapur stressed that the protests are not just political demonstrations but a broader struggle for the rule of law, the protection of the Constitution, and the preservation of democratic freedoms for future generations.

“The protest will continue as long as Imran Khan, the leader of our movement, says it will. This is not just a political demonstration but a fight for our fundamental rights,” Gandapur said, reiterating the party’s dedication to peaceful protests.

Despite PTI’s peaceful approach, Gandapur accused the government of responding with oppressive tactics, including illegal detentions, violence, and restricting PTI’s right to hold rallies. He claimed that PTI members have faced brutal police violence, resulting in injuries and deaths.

The protests, planned at Islamabad's D-Chowk, were intended to remain peaceful, but Gandapur alleged the government had used extreme force against demonstrators. “If the authorities use force against us, we will respond with peaceful resistance. But no matter what, the movement will continue until Imran Khan calls for its end,” he declared.

He also saluted PTI workers for their sacrifices, calling their resolve a testament to the movement’s strength and significance. “This is not just a struggle for today but for our children and the future of Pakistan,” Gandapur remarked, promising that the PTI’s commitment to justice and democracy would remain unbroken.

KP CM, Bushra Bibi 'safe,' says PTI secretary

PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram has assured that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and Bushra Bibi are safe. However, he refrained from disclosing his sources for this information.

Meanwhile, Maryam Riaz Watto, Bushra Bibi’s sister, expressed concerns over her sibling’s safety. In a video message released early Wednesday, Maryam alleged that Bushra might have been "kidnapped" as the family had not heard from her since security forces allegedly fired on PTI protestors' vehicles.

“If Bushra Bibi had reached KP, she would have contacted us,” Maryam said, adding that conflicting reports regarding Bushra’s arrest and supposed arrival in KP had left the family anxious.

Maryam also highlighted that the PTI protest had gained considerable momentum and asserted that Bushra would never abandon Imran Khan or flee under pressure.

Clean-up underway as Islamabad returns to normalcy post PTI protest

Following the grand operation against PTI protesters, clean-up activities have begun across various roads in the federal capital.

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Islamabad, Irfan Memon, announced that the administration has initiated the removal of containers and other barriers from the streets. All Assistant Commissioners have been directed to ensure the swift removal of roadblocks in their respective areas.

"The aim is to utilise all available resources to reopen roads for citizens as soon as possible," said Memon.

He added, "We are working diligently to ensure that all roads are cleared and open by morning for the public."

After being closed for four days, all motorways have now been reopened, as confirmed by motorway authorities. The Islamabad-Lahore motorway (M-2) is once again open, providing relief to commuters.

In addition, the Lahore-Sialkot motorway has been restored, improving regional connectivity.

Motorways M-3, M-4, and M-5 have also resumed operations, allowing for smoother travel across multiple areas of the country.

Simultaneously, cleaning efforts have also been launched to restore the city’s main thoroughfares to their normal state.

Bushra Bibi, Gandapur retreat as PTI calls off protest 'temporarily'

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest at D-Chowk ended late Tuesday following a large-scale government crackdown. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Information Minister Ataullah Tarar confirmed that the area had been cleared, with hundreds of protesters arrested and key PTI leaders retreating.

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and Bushra Bibi, wife of PTI founder Imran Khan, reportedly fled to Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa amid the chaos. Earlier, Bushra Bibi addressed PTI supporters, urging them to remain steadfast in demanding Khan’s release.

Protesters clashed fiercely with law enforcement, removing barriers and briefly occupying areas near Parliament. The military, summoned with shoot-at-sight orders, eventually pushed the crowd back. By nightfall, power was cut in the area before security forces launched a final operation.

Government ministers declared the PTI’s “final call” a failure, with Tarar stating: “Protesters fled, leaving behind shoes, clothes, and vehicles.” Over 450 arrests were reported, and officials promised normalcy would return by Wednesday. PTI leadership has yet to issue an official response.

PTI protest: At least 450 protesters arrested in Islamabad

Police and Rangers have successfully cleared the Blue Area in Islamabad after launching a crackdown on protesters who had gathered in the area on Tuesday, reported Express News.

More than 450 individuals were arrested during the operation while Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership remained out of sight.

Sources indicated that authorities have so far mainly arrested PTI activists who had allegedly attacked security forces during the protests. Additionally, a grand operation is reportedly being prepared to arrest more demonstrators in the coming hours. 

According to these sources, special teams have been formed to target PTI leaders, including Bushra Bibi, wife of Imran Khan, and K-P Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, with plans to apprehend them as part of ongoing security operations.

Govt rejects any negotiations with PTI, accuses opposition of escalating tensions

The government has firmly rejected any possibility of negotiations with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protesters, escalating tensions following days of demonstrations in Islamabad.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Information Minister Atta Tarar held a joint press conference on Tuesday, stating that the protesters, who had gathered at D-Chowk, had been pushed back and the area was cleared. The ministers stressed that no discussions would take place with the demonstrators.

The interior minister maintained that no negotiations would be held with the protesters, asserting that "now that they have come and seen the situation, there is no possibility of talks. The government has made a clear decision that there will be no negotiations with those on the sit-in."

Angry PTI workers throw bottle at Ali Amin Gandapur during protest

Tensions flared during a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest in Islamabad as party workers expressed their frustration over the lack of progress in the rally. In an outburst of anger, a PTI worker threw a bottle at Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, one of the key leaders present at the protest.

Gandapur, along with PTI's founder and his wife, Bushra Bibi, was leading the protest in the capital. The protesters were gathered in their vehicles, but their anger intensified as they were unable to advance to their intended destination at D-Chowk.

Eyewitnesses reported that the workers surrounded Gandapur’s vehicle, climbing onto it in frustration. At one point, a bottle was hurled at Gandapur, who had attempted to address the crowd by exiting the vehicle.

In response to the unrest, Gandapur called for security and returned to his vehicle, signalling the end of his public interaction. The incident highlights the growing discontent among PTI workers as they continue to protest in Islamabad.

PM, COAS attend funeral of Rangers personnel martyred during PTI protest

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir atteded the funeral prayers for three Rangers officials who embraced martyrdom during ongoing PTI protests.

The Funeral prayers took place at Chaklala Garrison and was attended by key political and military figures, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar, and Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir.

Educational institutions to remain closed in twin cities on Wednesday

Authorities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi have announced the closure of all educational institutions on November 27, due to ongoing protests by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

Bushra Bibi pledges not to leave D-Chowk without Imran Khan

Bushra Bibi, wife of former prime minister Imran Khan, addressed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters who gathered at D-Chowk after crossing all government-imposed barriers.

Speaking to the crowd, Bushra Bibi assured the attendees of her unwavering support for her husband’s cause, stressing Khan's dedication to the people. She urged supporters to remain at D-Chowk until Khan joins them in person.

WATCH: CCTV footage of attack on Rangers during PTI protest

CCTV footage has surfaced showing a miscreants vehicle hitting Rangers personnel in Islamabad, leading to the deaths of three officers and leaving three others injured.

The attack occurred around 2:44 AM on the night of November 26, as the Rangers were in the process of being deployed at a checkpoint.

According to security sources, the miscreants vehicle, traveling at high speed, approached from behind a tree, hit the Rangers personnel, and fled the scene.

The sources termed the incident as a deliberate and premeditated act by the assailants, a claim supported by the clear evidence in the CCTV footage, Express News reported.

"Won't return until Imran Khan's order": K-P CM

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur declared that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) convoy will not leave D-Chowk until they receive orders from Imran Khan.

He strongly criticized the government’s actions, describing them as fascist, and reaffirmed that PTI's protest would remain peaceful despite the escalating tensions.

Meanwhile, the military has taken control of the D-Chowk area as part of heightened security measures, while police have been intermittently using tear gas to disperse protesters.

As the situation unfolds, ongoing negotiations between the government and PTI continue, with PTI leaders having met with Imran Khan multiple times at Adiala Jail.

PTI protestors reach Islamabad's D-Chowk amid tense clashes

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) convoy, led by Bushra Bibi, is approaching Islamabad's Zero Point amid rising tensions and violent clashes between PTI workers and security forces.

In response, the Pakistan Army has been deployed under Article 245 of the Constitution, with Rangers securing key government buildings and military troops stationed at D-Chowk.

Tear gas shelling has spread to Aabpara Chowk, causing business closures, while additional police officers have been brought in from Rawalpindi.

Security forces have been authorised to use extreme measures, including shooting rioters on sight, and the army has the power to impose curfews if necessary.

PTI wants bloodshed, state won't use bullet: Attaullah Tarar

Atta Tarar has accused the PTI leadership of planning to incite bloodshed during ongoing protests, stating that the state will not respond with bullets.

He criticized PTI for using vulnerable children and paid protesters in their rallies, claiming that many of the demonstrators are hired individuals, including Afghan nationals.

Tarar also questioned why Bushra Bibi is not leading the protests herself, instead allegedly hiding behind others. He asserted that the primary goal of PTI leadership is to provoke violence, referencing the tragic events of May 9 as an example.

Additionally, he noted that there is no support for PTI’s protests from other provinces, and accused the party of attempting to exploit any violence that occurs for political gain.

Hidden hand sabotaging PTI's peace talks: Interior minister

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that the military is securing foreign delegations and the Red Zone, with a primary focus on national security.

Regarding the use of tear gas and weapons against PTI protesters, he noted that social media videos show firing on PTI youth, advising protesters not to take actions that could harm Pakistan.

Naqvi further clarified that a hidden force is preventing peace talks, with an agenda that does not align with Pakistan's interests. He expressed concern that PTI remains unaware of the hidden hand’s intentions.

Naqvi blamed the hidden hand for controlling PTI's actions, asserting that while the PTI leadership seeks negotiations, not violence, these covert forces are hindering peace talks.

He also mentioned that trained protesters from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are heading to Islamabad. Security forces are closely monitoring the situation and prioritizing national security, with Naqvi expressing full support for law enforcement’s efforts to manage the unrest.

In pictures: Security forces deployed in Islamabad

A policeman pelts stones to disperse supporters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party during a protest to demand the release of former prime minister Imran Khan, in Islamabad on November 26, 2024. — AFP

Policemen fire tear gas shells to disperse supporters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party during a protest to demand the release of former prime minister Imran Khan, in Islamabad on November 26, 2024. — AFP

Policemen fire tear gas shells to disperse supporters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party during a protest to demand the release of former prime minister Imran Khan, in Islamabad on November 26, 2024. — AFP

Photo: REUTERS

Photo: REUTERS

PTI convoy led by Bushra Bibi reaches Islamabad's G-10

PTI workers, led by Bushra Bibi, began their march from 26 Number Chungi towards Islamabad's Red Zone, crossing barriers at G-10 signal after a two-hour standoff.

Police and Rangers set up positions at G-9 signal and placed containers to block further movement. Despite this, the protestors continued advancing on Srinagar Highway.

Clashes broke out as the convoy reached Zero Point, with Rangers deployed at key buildings and military troops stationed at D-Chowk. Tear gas fired during the confrontations reached Aabpara Chowk, causing shops in the market to close. The protest is ongoing, with tensions still high.

Imran, Gandapur booked in policeman killing case

A police constable was killed, and several others were injured during an incident near Hakla Interchange, leading to a case being filed against PTI leadership.

The FIR, filed at Taxila police station, named PTI founder Imran Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Salar Khan Kakak, and Shahid Khattak.

The case includes charges under the Pakistan Penal Code and the Anti-Terrorism Act.

The attackers were reportedly armed with tear gas and rubber bullet guns, and they assaulted police officers using sticks and stones. Police also claim that the attackers violated Section 144 and carried out the attack as part of a criminal conspiracy led by PTI leadership.

Constable Mubashir Hassan was abducted and later found dead, thrown under Hakla Bridge. Other police officers, including Constables Adnan, Rais, and Naeem, sustained injuries during the attack. The incident highlights rising tensions between PTI supporters and law enforcement.

Maryam Nawaz condemns attack on security officials

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed grief and sorrow over the martyrdom of 4 Rangers personnel, who were crushed by a vehicle.

In a statement, she strongly condemned the vehicle incident, where miscreants ran over the Rangers officials, saying that those who died were someone's sons and brothers. It was an act of oppression.

Maryam Nawaz further stated, "Is killing and injuring others a peaceful protest? The rioters and miscreants are writing a bloody chapter in political history." She expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom of the four Rangers personnel.

Bushra Bibi: PTI to continue D-Chowk protest for Imran

Imran Khan's wife Bushra Bibi has advised Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers to 'not heed any calls until the party's founding chairman is released,' as she reiterated a sit-in call for D-Chowk.

Addressing PTI supporters participating in the protest, Bushra Bibi said, "The plan will not change until Khan Sahib comes out and gives us further instructions." She emphasized that, as per Khan's previous directive, PTI workers should not yield to any pressure or change the protest location until he personally addresses them. "Khan had said that if I say anything from inside, you should not listen. We will follow his instructions only when he is out and speaks to us directly," she added.

Bushra Bibi also stated that the protest would not move to the Red Zone, as the plan is to continue the sit-in at D-Chowk. "Once we reach D-Chowk, Khan will give us the next course of action," she confirmed.

She urged the workers to remain peaceful during the protest and called on the administration to also maintain a calm and respectful approach. "Our children, elders, and brothers should not be harmed. I hope everyone will respect each other," she said.

Bushra Bibi insists on D-Chowk as PTI march toward Red Zone

PTI workers, led by Bushra Bibi, have departed from 26 Number Chungi towards the Red Zone.

The departure came after PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar, contacted Bushra Bibi and Ali Amin Gandapur, via video message, Express News reported.

Sources indicate that the PTI's founding chairman had suggested an alternative protest location, but Bushra Bibi had rejected the idea. 
She claimed that certain conspiratorial elements were trying to prevent the protest at D-Chowk, but the founding had instructed them to continue their march to D-Chowk, as workers would not agree to protest anywhere else.

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has remained silent on the matter of negotiations.

PM condemns attack on Rangers and police by protesters

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemns the attack on Rangers and police personnel by protesters, using a vehicle on Srinagar Highway, in Islamabad.

In a statement, he directed to immediately identify those involved in the incident and ensure they are brought to justice.

The Prime Minister also instructed to provide the best possible medical facilities to the Rangers and police personnel injured in the attack.

He said attacks on police and Rangers, under the guise of a so-called peaceful protest, are condemnable. He said police and Rangers are assigned to maintain law and order in the city.

Shehbaz Sharif said the anarchist group seeks bloodshed, emphasizing this is not a peaceful protest, but extremism.

The Prime Minister said Pakistan cannot afford any form of chaos or bloodshed. He said bloodshed for nefarious political agenda is unacceptable and highly condemnable.

Army deployed in Islamabad after security personnel martyred

In response to escalating security concerns in Islamabad, the Ministry of Interior has announced the deployment of the Pakistan Army under Article 245 of the Constitution.

The move comes amid rising tensions following protests organised by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, leading to violent clashes with security forces.

Authorities have issued stringent directives to security personnel, authorizing them to take decisive action against agitators and miscreants, including the use of extreme measures such as shooting rioters on sight.

The interior ministry's notification also grants the Pakistan Army the authority to impose curfews in any locality deemed necessary to maintain law and order.

Following a PTI procession from Chungi Number 26 to D-Chowk, heightened security measures were implemented in Islamabad’s red zone, with Rangers personnel stationed at strategic locations

The situation escalated when miscreants rammed a vehicle into Rangers personnel during the protest on Srinagar Highway in Islamabad, resulting in the martyrdom of four Rangers officials and two policemen, state-run Radio Pakistan reported.

Additionally, a group of armed individuals pelted stones and opened fire on security forces at Chungi No 26 in Rawalpindi, injuring a Ranger who was later transferred to CMH Rawalpindi in critical condition.

US backs rights of people in Pakistan to protest peacefully

The US State Department called on both Pakistani authorities and protesters to respect human rights and uphold peaceful demonstrations. Spokesman Matthew Miller emphasized support for freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association, urging protesters to refrain from violence and for authorities to adhere to Pakistan's laws and constitution.

"We call on protesters to demonstrate peacefully and refrain from violence, and at the same time, we call on Pakistani authorities to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms and to ensure respect for Pakistan's laws and constitution as they work to maintain law and order," said Miller.

WATCH: Police officer, assigned to duty at the PTI protest, 'swings' into action

Amid ongoing PTI protests in Rawalpindi, a police officer stationed at Chungi No. 26 entertained himself by swinging on a nearby swing. 

With PTI supporters mobilising across Punjab towards Islamabad, police forces have been on continuous duty since early 24 November. Deployed in large numbers, officers near the Chungi No. 26 area have been working to maintain security amid periodic clashes between protesters and law enforcement.

One police officer’s brief break on a swing has attracted mixed reactions, with some sympathising with the long duty hours officers endure, while others questioned the optics given the volatile protest environment.

PTI convoy departs Hazara Interchange for D-Chowk

Convoys led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin and opposition leader Omar Ayub have crossed into Punjab.

The convoy is advancing from Hazara Interchange towards D-Chowk in Islamabad.

Severe tear gas shelling from police targeted the convoy at the Ghazi Barotha Bridge.

At Hazara Interchange, Omar Ayub’s convoy managed to push back the Punjab police, allowing Ali Amin to successfully lead the Hazara division convoy past police encirclement.

With the Hazara division convoy joining the main PTI convoy, the line of vehicles stretched over two kilometres.

On Hazara Motorway, PTI supporters forced police to retreat amidst intense stone-throwing and clashes, resulting in multiple injuries among police personnel. Two severely injured officers were transferred to a hospital.

Among those injured were DSP Patrolling Rawalpindi Chaudhry Zulfiqar, DSP Patrolling Jhelum Shahid Gilani, and ASI Attock Tabsum, with DSP Zulfiqar sustaining serious injuries to his back and legs.

Mianwali

The convoy from Mianwali is positioned near Dhoke Miskeen along the CPEC route, facing heavy resistance at Hakla Interchange.

The protesters were forced to retreat after clashes with police; however, a large number remain near the village of Mahlo along the CPEC route. Police are expected to act again should protesters attempt to advance.

Barrister Gohar dismisses protest cancellation rumours

Barrister Gohar and Barrister Saif held a 90-minute meeting with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan at Adiala Jail where they discussed strategic aspects of the ongoing protest movement.

After the meeting, Barrister Gohar confirmed to journalists that Imran Khan remains firm on his call for a protest, dismissing rumours that the demonstration might be cancelled.

"This discussion was significant," Barrister Gohar said, emphasising that Imran Khan’s stance on the protest was unwavering. “There is no truth to the rumours of cancellation. The movement will continue as planned.”

The meeting centred on the current political climate and PTI's plans, with Barrister Gohar describing it as a critical discussion on the party's future actions.

When asked about possible ongoing negotiations related to the protest, Barrister Gohar assured that updates would be provided “in due course,” but withheld further specifics on these discussions at this stage.

Islamabad’s CIA Centre declared sub-jail

In response to the escalating Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protests, Islamabad authorities have designated the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Centre in the I-9 sector as a sub-jail, an official notification confirmed.

The directive, issued by Islamabad's Chief Commissioner with approval from the Ministry of Interior, formally reclassifies the CIA Centre as a sub-jail under Section 3 of the Prisons Act 1894. Authorities stated that this centre will now hold demonstrators detained during the ongoing PTI protests in Islamabad.

The directive to repurpose the CIA building as a detention facility is one of several measures taken by the Islamabad administration to maintain control amid the large-scale protests.

“This is not just about my husband; it is about this country and its leader” Bushra Bibi

Bushra Bibi, wife of detained Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, addressed a crowd of PTI supporters, pledging to stand with them "until [her] last breath" to secure her husband’s release. Bushra, who spoke from atop a container at Burhan Interchange, urged supporters to stay resolute in their ongoing protests, vowing she would not leave until Khan was freed.

“I will stand here until my last breath for Imran Khan’s release,” Bushra said. She expressed hope that her supporters, particularly the Pathan community, would stand by her until the end, calling Pathans “people of honour.”

Her message to the crowd was fervent: “My children, my brothers, we will not end this protest until Imran Khan is with us. I will stay right here until the very end, even if I am left alone.”

Bushra Bibi also emphasised the broader significance of their struggle, stating, “This is not just about my husband; it is about this country and its leader.”

With this rallying cry, she concluded her speech with chants of “Allahu Akbar,” urging the assembled PTI workers to keep faith as they pushed for Imran Khan’s release.

Barrister Gohar meets Imran Khan at Adiala jail

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar, along with other key party figures, met former Prime Minister Imran Khan at Adiala Jail.

Barrister Gohar, accompanied by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s (K-P) Information Advisor Barrister Saif, and PTI leader Ali Mohammad Khan, met with the jailed party founder, Express News reported.

Sources say the purpose of the meeting was to brief Imran Khan on the latest developments concerning the Islamabad protest, and to take his guidance on the matter.

Government braces for PTI rally with heavy security, roadblocks, and internet shutdowns

PTI rally towards Islamabad has prompted the government to implement stringent security measures. Key roads to the capital have been sealed off with containers, while law enforcement agencies, including the police, Rangers, and Frontier Corps (FC), have been deployed in large numbers to block the march.

Islamabad has been effectively turned into a fortress, with critical routes like the Srinagar Highway, GT Road, and Expressway blocked to prevent the PTI convoys from entering the city.

Security measures have also been enforced in Rawalpindi, where all public transport has been halted, including the Metro Bus service.

In addition to the physical barricades, authorities have suspended internet services in high-risk areas, aiming to prevent the PTI supporters from coordinating and dispersing information.

The Ministry of Interior confirmed that mobile data and internet services could be fully suspended in areas with heightened security risks, ensuring smooth enforcement of the measures.

PTI convoys face heavy resistance as they march toward Islamabad

As the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rallies, led by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), advanced towards Islamabad, they faced heavy resistance from law enforcement agencies.

The convoys, which began their journey from Swabi, encountered intense tear gas shelling and clashes near key points such as the Attock Bridge, Chach Interchange, and Ghazi Barotha Canal. The protests escalated as demonstrators responded by setting fires and damaging property.

Despite the government’s efforts to block access to the capital using containers and heavy security deployment, PTI supporters pushed forward. Police in Punjab reported using tear gas to disperse the protesters, and clashes continued as PTI workers tried to breach security barriers.

Several PTI leaders, including Amir Dogar and Zain Qureshi, were arrested, with the Punjab police confirming approximately 600 arrests for violating Section 144.

Social media disruptions hit Pakistan as government steps up measures to halt PTI protest

Social media platforms including WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook have been facing widespread disruptions across Pakistan, with users reporting difficulties accessing these services on Monday.

The outages coincide with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party’s announced plans to march to Islamabad, and many speculate that the disruptions are connected to government efforts to hinder the protest. However, no official statement has confirmed the cause of the disruptions, raising questions about the timing.

Downdetector.com, a service that tracks website and social media platform outages, has shown a significant rise in complaints from Pakistani users about slow internet speeds and outages.

There have been recurring issues with WhatsApp services particularly affecting WhatsApp Web, voice calls, and multimedia messages. Users have been experiencing disruptions for several hours, with some citing issues sending and receiving voice messages, pictures, and videos, and others mentioning delays in calls or even complete outages.

Although the government had already announced plans to disrupt internet services in areas deemed to be security risks, no formal statement has been issued regarding the blockage of social media platforms.