The federal government has formally directed Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) officials to refrain from using state resources to support Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) upcoming protest in Islamabad on November 24.
The Ministry of Interior sent a letter to K-P’s Chief Secretary emphasising the need for neutrality, specifically instructing that no government funds, personnel, or equipment be utilised for the political event, Express News reported.
With PTI’s demonstration just days away, the Punjab government has taken active steps to prevent disruptions, positioning containers across key routes in Rawalpindi.
Major blockade points, including Fawara Chowk and Liaquat Road, have been partially sealed, while additional containers are being placed on main city roads as precautionary barriers.
Rawalpindi police have implemented a comprehensive security plan, deploying over 4,500 officers across 47 strategic points, with 34 additional checkpoints established in and around the Cantonment area. This heavy police presence is intended to maintain order, preventing unrest and minimising the impact of the protest on local communities.
The federal government’s directive reflects an increased emphasis on maintaining a clear separation between state resources and political activities.
Azma Bokhari warns PTI of 'terrorist-like' crackdown on Nov 24
On Wednesday, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari issued a stern warning to PTI ahead of planned anti-government protests on 24 November, stating that the government will act against the demonstrators as it does with terrorists.
Speaking outside the Lahore High Court, Azma criticised those planning the protests, alleging they are waging "jihad against the state." She said, “They may have plans A and B, but the state has the full A to Z to counter them.”
Azma also accused Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of misusing public funds, claiming that over Rs8.1 million were spent on a rally in Islamabad, money she argued should have been allocated to public welfare in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Referring to a fake video scandal targeting her, Azma welcomed the Lahore High Court’s decision to reject the bail plea of Muhammad Shafiq, one of the accused.
The court remarked that such actions severely damage a woman’s reputation and need firm legal action.
The minister further stressed the need for regulating social media in Pakistan, calling for enhanced capacity-building for the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).
Azma criticised PTI's propaganda tactics and accused the party of operating a cell to spread disinformation, urging the judiciary to take a stricter stance against such activities.
The protests, planned for 24 November, have sparked concerns of potential unrest. The Punjab government has vowed to take all necessary measures to maintain law and order.
Punjab govt utilising state machinery to counter protest
The provincial government has again deployed all the state machinery at its disposal to prevent PTI from holding a successful rally in the federal capital.
The PML-N-led government has termed the protest rally in Islamabad a ruse to collect funds. Punjab Information minister in a press conference, Azma Bokhari alleged that PTI's aim on Nov 24 is to collect money.
The minister said that even if K-P CM Ali Amin Gandapur, t manages to reach Islamabad this time, he will have to cross 24 districts to return to Peshawar.
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