Naqvi warns of curfew as PTI granted permission for Sit-In at Sangjani area

Naqvi said that government offered for sit-in at the Sangjani instead of D-Chowk area, which was accepted

Interior Minister of Pakistan, Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that the government has granted Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) permission to protest for sit-in at the Sangjani area.

He also warned against pushing the government to the brink, stating that extreme measures could include deploying the army in Islamabad or even imposing a curfew if needed.

He also said the offered accepted from Adiala Jail without mentioning the name of Imran Khan. However, he added that PTI has yet to respond to the offer in official manner.

Naqvi visited the D-Chowk area to speak with Law enforcement officers, where he met with complaints from Sindh police officers about inadequate facilities. They highlighted the cold weather and lack of proper arrangements. In response, the Interior Minister directed the Secretary of Interior, Chief Commissioner, and Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad to resolve these issues and provide necessary support.

“The officers from other provinces are our guests, and providing them with facilities is our priority,” he added. He instructed that Sindh police officers be given warm clothing and jackets immediately, adding that well-equipped personnel will be able to perform better.

Martyred Police officer

Speaking to the media after attending the funeral of a martyred officer at the Police Lines, Naqvi condemned the actions of those behind the protests, saying that they showed no remorse for their actions. “The call for protests has been ongoing for two days, and they are still on the streets,” he said.

Naqvi held those behind the protests responsible for the martyrdom and injuries sustained by police officers, and vowed that they would face legal consequences. “We will file FIRs against everyone, and we will now employ a different strategy,” he stated.

He also referenced the arrival of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in Pakistan, accusing Imran Khan of attempting to bring global shame to the country.

D-Chowk

Addressing the ongoing violence, Naqvi said that any protesters who reach D-Chowk will be arrested.

Regarding the violence, Naqvi mentioned that one senior police officer (SP) was critically injured due to stone-pelting by protesters. “This officer has suffered severe head injuries,” he said.

The Minister also emphasized that while protesters sought to escalate the situation, the government’s primary objective was to protect citizens and prevent loss of life.

He further stated that evidence of PTI's planning would soon be revealed, particularly in relation to meetings held by Barrister Gohar, citing internal issues within the party. “We are now waiting for PTI’s response before taking further steps,” Naqvi added.