FAISALABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced a day of mourning on Tuesday after a party worker was killed when unidentified assailants opened fire on their rally near Nala Lai in Faisalabad on Monday afternoon, Express News reported.
The incident prompted protests in various cities of Pakistan including Peshawar, Lahore, Quetta and Karachi. PTI chief Imran Khan said that they are ready to counter the oppressive rule of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, and that all district headquarters will stage funeral prayers for the slain PTI worker Haq Nawaz on Tuesday.
An FIR has also been lodged against Minister of State for Water and Power Abid Sher Ali and former Punjab Law Minister Rana Sanaullah among 300 people.
Meanwhile, the Punjab Chief Minister has constituted a three member investigation committee to probe the incident. The Punjab government has also announced a bounty worth Rs5 million for information that would lead to the arrest of the assailant.
PML-N leaders have denied that the assailant was affiliated with their party.
11:58pm
Punjab government on Tuesday announced a bounty worth Rs5 million for information leading to the arrest of the suspect involved in Monday’s incident in Faisalabad
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11:05pm
Imran Khan has left for Faisalabad Airport to return to Islamabad and join the protest at D-Chowk.
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9:50pm
Standing atop his vehicle at D-Type Chowk in Faisalabad, PTI chief vowed not to let the sacrifice of slain PTI worker Haq Nawaz go in vain, Express News reported.
“PTI will observe ‘Youm-e-Soug’ (Day of Mourning) on Tuesday and I will also offer funeral prayers of the slain PTI worker.”
“I would like to thank people of Faisalabad of supporting our call for shutting down the entire city to save our future,” said the PTI chief.
Accusing Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif of following the politics of oppression Imran said, “Nawaz you have always followed the politics of violence.”
“PML-N thought young PTI workers would get scared, tired and leave, but we are not scared and will fight against their injustices.”
“I will go to Karachi next and I am eagerly waiting to go Lahore,” said Imran.
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9:20pm
Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif on Monday took notice of the firing incident at Nala Lai bridge in Faisalabad and has formed a three member committee to probe it, Express News reported.
Provincial Secretary for Environment Iqbal Muhammad Chohan will lead the committee. The committee will submit its findings within three days to the chief minister.
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9:10pm
PTI chief Imran Khan has reached D-Type Chowk in Faisalabad, Express News reported.
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8:50pm
Express News reports that PTI plans to continue its protest against the killing of its worker, in Peshawar on Tuesday.
PTI workers protesting against the killing of PTI worker in Peshawar on Monday evening. PHOTO: MUHAMMAD IQBAL/ EXPRESS
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8:48pm
Strongly condemn violence in politics. Lawlessness is the outcome of statements of IK and Sh Rashid.
— Abid Sher Ali (@AbidSherAli) December 8, 2014
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8:45pm
MQM leader and coordination committee member Mustufa Azizabadi expressed sorrow over the killing of PTI worker in Faisalabad while protesting against the government, our correspondent Rabia Ali reported.
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8:30pm
Talking to Express News, former law minister Rana Sanaullah refuted the allegation that the man who opened fire on PTI's rally was a PML-N worker.
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8:20pm
Meanwhile, read our interview of a female PTI activist who fought off an advancing mob here.
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8:10pm
On Monday evening, case was registered against State Minister for Water and Power Abid Sher Ali and Rana Sanaullah among 300 people for the murder of PTI activist Haq Nawaz. The FIR was registered on the complaint of Nawaz’s brother Attaullah.
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7:59pm
Heavy contingent of Police and Rangers have been deputed at the PML-N office located on Karsaaz Road in Karachi. Meanwhile, PML-N workers from all over the city have also started gathering outside the party’s office.
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7:49pm
Metro Bus service in Lahore has been suspended due to security reasons, Express News reported.
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7:48pm
PTI workers have blocked the road leading to Murree near Athal Chowk, Bara Kahu area in Islamabad.
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7:24pm
PTI activists burn tyres and block Aabpara during a protest. PHOTO: ONLINE
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7:19pm
PML-N supporters resorted to throwing eggs on PTI chief Imran Khan’s vehicle while it was passing through Chenab Chowk, according to our correspondent Shamsul Islam.
Despite all such odds, Imran continued his journey along with a big procession towards to D-Type Intersection.
Interestingly, PTI workers have not retaliated to the egging on his vehicle by PML-N activists.
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7:00pm
PTI workers will stage a protest against the death of their activist at Five Star Chowrangi in Karachi at 7:00pm, our correspondent Rabia Ali reports.
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6:57pm
PTI workers in Karachi are advancing towards Karsaz to protest outside the PML-N office in the area, Express News correspondent Rehan Khan reports.
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6:41pm
PTI chief Imran Khan's vehicle has been pelted with stones on Jhang Road in Faisalabad, Express News reports.
The PTI chief has been on the move from the airport for about two hours to reach Ghanta Ghar to address his supporters.
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6:38pm
PTI's Nadir Akmal Khan Leghari said Karachi will remain closed on December 12, adding that the PTI chief will arrive in the city on that day, our correspondent Rabia Ali reports.
Leghari, while addressing a press conference, said the sit-in will start after Friday.
“If Gullu Butts come out, PML-N and PPP will be responsible,” he said. “PTI has not approached or invited any political party to take part in the protests directly.”
He also said a day of mourning would be observed throughout Sindh, and a protest would be held on Tuesday at 5pm at Regal Chowk.
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6:25pm
PTI workers can be seen burning tyres on Shahrah-e-Faisal in Karachi.
Express News screengrab of protesters burning tyres on Shahra-e-Faisal.
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6:25pm
PTI has also announced to hold protests in Peshawar tomorrow, Express News reports.
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6:21pm
Shocking how PMLN is prepared to kill peaceful protestors but not willing to open ballot bags to examine electoral rigging.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) December 8, 2014
Given political birth by a dictator, Sharifs & cohorts have never understood democratic culture.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) December 8, 2014
Massive crowds surrounding us in Faisalabad. The nation's verdict in support of our quest for Insaf is loud and clear.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) December 8, 2014
People's reaction against the killing of unarmed people in Faisalabad has brought them out in full force to support us.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) December 8, 2014
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6:15pm
Watch a video of the clashes between police and PTI workers outside former Punjab law minister Rana Sanaullah's office.
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6:07pm
As PTI workers gather and try to enter former Punjab law minister Rana Sanaullah’s office, police have resorted to firing tear gas and hurling stones at the protesters, Express News reports.
Further, stick-wielding PML-N workers have also gathered outside Sanaullah’s office.
Some PTI workers threw back the gas shells towards the police which caused injuries to four police constables and 10 PTI workers, according to our correspondent on the ground Shamsul Islam.
Express News screengrab of police firing what appears to be tear gas at PTI protesters.
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5:51pm
The lights in Novelty Chowk, where PTI chairman Imran Khan is due to address his supporters, have been switched off.
Express News screengrab of PTI protesters holding candles as electricity is shut off in the area.
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5:50pm
PTI protesters have blocked off GPO Chowk to protest their activist’s death. The protest, which was led by the PTI’s lawyer’s wing, now includes other PTI supporters and members of the ISF, our correspondent Aroosa Shaukat reports.
Currently, more than 200 protestors are present at the venue and are burning tyres.
A Forman Christian College bus was stopped by protesters, but the students joined the protest and chanted ‘Go Nawaz Go.
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5:46pm
Three police officials have been injured as clashes erupted between police and PTI workers outside former Punjab law minister Rana Sanaullah’s office, Express News reports.
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5:33pm
PTI leader Arif Alvi says negotiations (with the government) cannot continue in such a volatile situation.
“The government should be ashamed of its act of killing an innocent worker,” he added while addressing a press conference, warning that the PTI’s movement will spread.
Further, he said protests have started on Shahrah-e-Faisal in Karachi as well.
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5:27pm
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5:20pm
Police fire tear gas at protesters moving towards former Punjab law minister Rana Sanaullah’s office, Express News reports.
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5:15pm
Along with Punjab, PTI has announced to observe a day of mourning tomorrow in Karachi as well, Express News reports.
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5:05pm
A stage has been set at D-Type Chowk in Faislabad for PTI chief Imran Khan to address his party workers and supporters, Express News reports.
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5:03pm
Nabeela Ghazanfar, a spokesperson for police in Punjab, told AFP: "One protester has been killed and five others injured including two policemen.
"The Punjab police chief has issued strict orders not to let anybody take the law into their hands."
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4:58pm
PTI workers say they will continue to protest till their central leadership orders them to do otherwise, Express News correspondent Imran Asghar reports.
Further, PTI has announced to observe “Black Day” across Punjab on Tuesday.
PTI workers protest in Sialkot against the killing of slain PTI worker. PHOTO: INP
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4:51pm
The post-mortem of the deceased PTI worker has not yet begun, Express News reported. According to sources, there is a delay because the police have not yet reached the hospital.
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4:41pm
Islamabad Expressway has also been sealed after several tyres were burnt, our correspondent Irfan Ghauri reports.
AS heavy traffic jam can be seen on roads leading to the Islamabad Expressway, Express News reports.
Further, protests have started on Mall Road in Lahore where protesters can be heard chanting "Go Nawaz Go," according to Express News.
Express News screengrab of protesters burning tyres on the Islamabad Expressway.
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4:33pm
Aabpara Chowk has been blocked by police after tires were burnt in the area allegedly by PTI supporters, and the area has been sealed by barriers, our correspondent Azam Khan reports.
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4:16pm
PTI Chairman Imran Khan has reached Faisalabad Airport in a special airplane and is moving towards the city via Jhang Road in a big procession, our correspondent Shamsul Islam reports.
A large number of PTI workers, activists and leaders are part of the procession.
The body of the slain PTI worker, Haq Nawaz -- who was 23-years-old, has been shifted to the mortuary of Allied Hospital for postmortem.
Additionally, PTI has announced to hold a protest against the killing of their worker who was fatally shot in Faisalabad this morning at Mall Road after the Punjab Assembly session.
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4:12pm
A shopkeeper looks as clashes erupt between PTI workers and PML-N workers. PHOTO: INP
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4:02pm
All eight bazaars leading to Ghanta Ghar have virtually been sealed by the police, who have also dispersed PML-N workers at this location, according to our correspondent on the ground, Shamsul Islam.
Further, police are enabling workers from PTI, the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) and Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) to enter the eight bazaars to reach Ghanta Ghar.
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3:49pm
Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid lashed out at PTI chairman Imran Khan and said the latter’s “Plan is to create chaos in the country.”
“When residents of Faisalabad announced they would not participate in the PTI shutdown, PTI vice chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi claimed they would protest preacefully,” the information minister said.
But Rashid continued that Imran “gave him a shut up call” like he had done earlier on the issue of negotiations with the government.
Read the whole story here.
Express News screengrab of Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid while addressing a press conference.
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3:43pm
PTI has announced to hold a protest against the killing of their worker at 4:15pm on Expressway near Sohan in Islamabad, Express News reports.
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3:37pm
Organisers say he will first go to Novelty Chowk to reach D-Type Chowk, from where the slain PTI worker’s body has been transported.
Imran is also said to be scheduled to make a speech there.
A heavy police contingent is also monitoring the situation to prevent any direct clashes at this spot.
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3:36pm
A large number of PTI workers, activists and leaders have thronged the Faisalabad Airport to receive PTI chief Imran Khan, who is scheduled to arrive from Islamabad at 3:30 pm, according to our correspondent Shamsul Islam.
The PTI convoy, which comprises a large number of vehicles, has been stopped about one kilometre away from the airport. Further, media teams have also been restricted from moving towards the airport.
PTI workers seem to be very charged and can be seen carrying flags and chanting “Go Nawaz Go”.
Charged PTI protestors rally on the streets of Faisalabad. PHOTO: INP
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3:33pm
Rana Sanaullah, while speaking to Express News, denied that the man who allegedly shot the PTI worker was a PML-N worker.
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3:10pm
Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid is set to hold a press conference at 3:30pm regarding the Faisalabad clashes and the government's strategy, according to out correspondent Abdul Manan.
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3:10pm
The body of the slained PTI worker has been sent to his house for burial.
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2:54pm
Along with PTI workers, PML-N workers and supporters of Sanaullah have also assembled at the former Punjab law minister’s office, who has announced that he will also remain there.
“Peaceful protests are a democratic right but no one has the right to resort to force for creating obstacles and take law into their hands,’ Sanaullah said.
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2:48pm
PTI Punjab Chief Ejaz Chaudhary announced that “PTI would stage a sit-in at D-Type Colony Chowk, and will remain there till the registration of a case for PTI worker, Asghar Ali, who was fatally shot dead”.
Chaudhary alleged Rana Sanaullah, his son-in-law Shehar Yar, and DCO Faisalabad are directly responsible for the killing of the PTI worker, whose body has been placed around 400 feet away from Sanaullah’s office.
“PTI chairman Imran Khan would also participate in the protest to press the demand for the registration of a criminal case against Sanaullah, his son-in-law and others.”
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2:48pm
Activists of PTI, seen in the party’s colours and a t-shirt which has “Khan’s army’ written on it, gather in front of a shop after violent clashes erupted between PTI and PML-N supporters. PHOTO: INP
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2:28pm
PTI supporters have reached former Punjab law minister Rana Sanaullah’s office with the body of the slain PTI activist.
Meanwhile, PTI chairman Imran Khan has left Bani Gala for Faisalabad.
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2:19pm
Awami Muslim League (AML) leader Sheikh Rasheed speaks to Express News and says PML-N-led government cannot stay in power with these tactics, referring to the use of violence to prevent protests.
The leader says the struggle for justice has spread across the country and is unstoppable.
"PM Nawaz Sharif is surrounded by people who give him poor advice," he claims.
The AML leader accuses PML-N of using Punjab police to achieve its political goals.
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2:15pm
Punjab government spokesperson Zaigham Qadri, while speaking to Express News, alleges PTI members had forced traders last night to shut down shops. Qadri says, however, the traders rejected PTI's call.
He says PTI supporters are frustrated by traders' refusal to close shops and reacting violently.
The provincial spokesperson says Imran Khan should call off his protest if he cares for Pakistan.
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2:03pm
PTI chief Imran Khan, while speaking to the media, says it is the state's responsibility to protect its citizens.
"The violence was pre-planned," he adds.
Imran further accuses PML-N of using "armed thugs" to attack PTI supporters.
"Their Gullus were involved in all the clashes today," he adds.
An Express News screen grab of PTI cheif Imran Khan speaking to the media before his arrival in Faisalabad
The PTI chief says his 'Plan C' is to increase pressure on the government. "We are fighting for democracy," he says, adding that PML-N had agreed on many conditions but backed out recently.
Lamenting police brutality against his supporters, Imran says he will go to the police station in Faisalabad and file an FIR against the attackers.
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1:56pm
PTI leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi says PML-N supporters incited violence and we have lost a supporter. "We still urge our supporters to remain calm; we will review the entire situation," he says, adding that PTI leaders will meet their Faisalabad supporters to come to a conclusion over what actually transpired.
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1:42pm
Mazari says Imran Khan will come to Faisalabad and address his supporters at all costs.
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1:39pm
She also says PTI leaders are present with the supporters and trying their best to keep the situation peaceful.
"Police and PML-N supporters initiated violence," she says.
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1:37pm
PTI leader Shireen Mazari says PML-N had planned to attack PTI supporters.
She claims that the Novelty Bridge shooter is Rana Sanaullah's son-in-law's guard.
Condemning police violence, Mazari says PTI workers were not armed but only retaliated when attacked. "This is self-defence," she adds.
Just like Imran Khan, Mazari recalls JUI-F protest on Peshawar interchange last week and how PTI avoided use of force.
She stresses that PTI leaders have been constantly appealing to their supporters to remain calm. "But it is police's responsibility to remain unbiased and protect everyone," she adds.
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1:32pm
Markets in Gujranwala Road, Ghulam Muhammadabad, Satiyana Road and Dhandi areas remain open, while markets around Ghanta Ghar Chowk are closed.
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1:28pm
At least 100 PTI activists, carrying the body of Asghar Ali, are heading towards former law minister Rana Sanaullah’s “political office” to register their protest, our correspondent Shamsul Islam reports.
Asghar Ali was shot dead in clashes near Novelty Bridge area.
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1:25pm
Jubilant PTI supporters dance at Allied Chowk, while in Ghanta Ghar Chowk area, local party leaders make speeches.
Clashes continue in Novelty Bridge area.
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1:23pm
PTI leaders try to control the situation in Faisalabad. PHOTO: EXPRESS NEWS SCREEN GRAB
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1:18pm
PTI supporters, including women and children, arrive at Ghanta Ghar Chowk where Imran Khan is due to address at 3.30pm.
A huge number of PML-N supporters are also present in the area.
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1:14pm
PTI supporters, including women and children, arrive at Ghanta Ghar Chowk where Imran Khan is due address at 3:30pm.
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1:12pm
A dozen workers sustain injuries after PTI and PML-N supporters clash near Ghanta Ghar Chowk, our correspondent Shamsul Islam reports.
Police baton charge agitators in an attempt to disperse them.
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1:01pm
According to our correspondent Shamsul Islam, PTI local leader Lubna Malik was allegedly confronted by PML-N supporters when she arrived in Ghanta Ghar Chowk area.
She was taken to safety by police after she ran away from the angry crowd.
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12:59pm
Traders have closed markets around Ghanta Ghar Chowk as security situation deteriorates in the area, our correspondent Shamsul Islam reported.
Police had earlier assured these shopkeepers that they will be provided full security during the PTI strike.
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12:56pm
Clashes between PTI, PML-N continues in various parts of the city, while police fail to control the situation.
Our correspondent Shamsul Islam on the ground reports that the Novetly Bridge shooter has been identified as Shahid Ali and is allegedly a PML-N worker.
He resides in the Samnaabad area which borders the current flashpoint – Novelty Bridge area.
The total number of injured has reached four now.
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12:45pm
Allied Hospital's MS confirms death of 23-year-old Asghar Ali and says the PTI activist, who was shot near Novelty Bridge, succumbed to his injures.
The other injured is in critical condition.
CPO Sohail Tajik says Novelty Bridge shooter has been identified and two police teams have been constituted to ensure the shooter's arrest.
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12:35pm
PTI vice president Shah Mehmood Qureshi urges all PTI supporters to remain calm via his twitter account:
Dear Insafians, stay resolute. Imran Khan is coming to join you all in Faisalabad very soon. No state violence can beat your Junoon.
— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) December 8, 2014
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12:26pm
Stick-wielding unidentified men forced traders to close their shops in Novelty Bridge area.
Police, despite present in large number, fail to bring situation under control.
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12:15pm
PTI leader Ejaz Chaudhry blames PML-N of using force to disperse PTI protesters.
He questions why PML-N supporters are gathered in different parts of the area if they don’t intend to clash with PTI workers.
Chaudhry appeals to his supporters to remain calm and not resort to violence.
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12:11pm
PML-N leader Rana Sanaullah accuses PTI workers of deteriorating security situation in the city.
He assures the shooter involved in Novelty Bridge shooting will be soon arrested. The leader stressed that the shooter has no links with PML-N, the government or police.
Sanaullah says PTI's call for shutdown has been rejected. He, however, adds PTI chief Imran and his supporters will be provided with full security.
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12:05pm
Alleged PTI supporters clash with PML-N workers at Allied Chowk as news of PTI activists injured in Novelty Bridge incident arrives.
Alleged PTI supporters break windows of cars parked in the area.
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12:04pm
PML-N leader Talal Chaudhry tells Express News that his party workers are peaceful.
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12:01pm
Shahbaz Sharif takes notice of unidentified man firing near Novelty Bridge and orders immediate inquiry into the shooting incident.
CPO Faisalabad tells Express News he is closely monitoring the situation.
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11:50am
One of the injured is reportedly in critical condition.
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11:45am
Shooting by unidentified man leaves two injured who have been shifted to Allied Hospital.
It is unclear what party the shooter belongs to.
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11:40am
Novelty Bridge area echoes with gun shots as unidentified man fires in the air.
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11:39am
One police official is injured as security forces struggle to maintain law and order situation.
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11:34am
Two alleged PTI supporters injured as alleged PML-N supporter opens fire.
One activist was shot in the shoulder while the other on his hand.
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11:24am
Police use water cannons and tear gas shells as protesters continue to throw stones and bricks.
Children are also allegedly involved in throwing stones.
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11:20am
Ahead of his arrival, PTI chief takes to his twitter account:
When JUI blocked roads in KP 2 stop PTI workers coming to Islamabad,KP govt didn't use police against them. Instead CM changed his route 1/2
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) December 8, 2014
2/2 Compare this to Punjab which has become a police province. Countless FIRs against PTI including myself & KP CM.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) December 8, 2014
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11:15am
Traders allegedly forced to close their shops in the area around Chenab Road.
PTI female supporters stage sit-in near Faisalabad’s Allied Chowk.
Protesters are now making use of bricks to throw at rival protesters at novelty bridge.
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11:09am
Two party activists have been injured as rival parties throw stones at each other. It is not yet clear which party they belong to.
Edhi officials take injured to hospital for medical treatment.
Police begin baton charge to disperse protesters.
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11:07am
Imran has announced the time of his arrival via twitter:
Today I will be in Faisalabad Ghanta Ghar 3 30 pm InshaAllah #ShutDownToRebuild
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) December 8, 2014
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10:58am
Faisalabad’s district administration has reportedly constituted teams to negotiate with PTI protesters.
Traffic around Abdullah Chowk has been diverted to alternate routes as PTI blocks area by setting tyres on fire.
A heavy contingent of police is present in the area to maintain law and order situation.
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10:51am
PTI supporters stage sit-ins and manage to completely block Samundri Road and Novelty Bridge in the city. Supporters allegedly tear each other's clothes as political temperature rises.
PML-N and PTI workers clash near Millat Chowk with police arriving and dispersing the opposing members.
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10:40am
Pakistan Muslim League - Nawaz (PML-N) and PTI supporters trade verbal jabs as PTI begins to stage sit-ins in various areas of the city.
Party supporters exchange "go Nawaz go" and "ro Imran ro" slogans as they criticise each other's leaders.
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9:43am
Alleged PTI supporters gathered at Millat Chowk and burnt tyres.
Imran had earlier made a commitment to remain peaceful throughout the shutdown of the city.
With full faith that PTI has the power to shutdown the entire city, party activists are all set to stage demonstrations across nine locations in Faisalabad, namely, Gattwala, Nishatabad, Akbar Chowk, PMC Chowk, Novelty Bridge, Jinnah Colony Gates, Chenab Chowk, Abdullah Pur Chowk and Jhall Khannuana Chowk.
Burning tyres before the arrival of their party leader, the alleged PTI supporters have managed to disrupt traffic flow in one part of the city.
COMMENTS (95)
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@mamu: No it was not ended. Khattak is very corrupt. Runs gambling dens in Kohat and illegal Wine shops in DI Khan.
Scene set for a 'My Beloved Countrymen...' speech, preceded by several fast-moving Land Rover Defender SUVs. No, the big, big boys don't ride the Isuzus and Land Cruisers anymore. Really, really, hope to God I'm wrong.
This is true that this Imran Khan’s step is absolutely wrongful but why PML-N is showing contrary, dishonesty and insincerity and why is using delaying tactics to investigate the elections’ rigging?PML-N is the equal responsible for the current political unrest in Pakistan and if PML-N is clear and really people elected PML-N then PML-N has to investigate the elections’ rigging and clear itself from the accusations of rigging instead of wasting time and using delaying tactics…. This has been happening in Sindh also when on a single call of MQM the whole cities traders close their shops most especially importantly when businesses and shops in the major cities of Sindh are closed why? Keep up daydreaming and stargazing and yes you are right because as PM Nawaz Sharif has full chances/opportunities to make the useless foreign tours/trips with his family members,blue-eyed ministers and servants as many as possible on the tax money of the common Pakistani people……
Today we Peshawari saw how nurses closed the capital city. They demanded for their rights and provincial PTI failed govt cant fulfill the medics, teachers and daily wages demands. PTI have any plan to closed Peshawar too? because people closed it today, but when provincial govt will close the city?
The base of all these protests whether in Islamabad or any where else in Pakistan is directly connected to IK's demand more than a year and half ago to verify the ballots in the 4 constituencies in Punjab. It seems there has been massive rigging otherwise NS and his party would have welcomed the verification process. So if there has been rigging then the current government has no mandate to rule the country which they are doing with iron hand. They thought that using violence (massacre at Model Town Lahore) will subside the demands of the opposition but in fact it ignited the fires even further, now they have killed more protesters and it will be the beginning of the end. I don't think the young generation is going to let the Sharif Brothers rule in peace as long as there will be no ballot verification. It seems the Sharif Brothers know that verification of ballots in the 4 constituencies in question will seal their fate. Are they using delaying tactics to alter the ballots in cahoots with Election Commission of Pakistan? I would not pass beyond them. Remember how NADRA Chief was sent home unceremoniously because he wanted to verify the ballots.
PTI's evil should have been nipped in the bud. But it has been allowed to grow.
Imran Khan should be arrested and sent behind bars. He is continuously preaching agitation to his workers. Imran is worse thans Taliban for Pakistan.
I think only who believe in politics of corpses become successful.Why PML N govt or its worker will shoot on PTI rally.
No body will destabilise his own govt.The killers are those who have their vested interests.
These dirty killers are backed by western elements who want to further destabilise pakistan.
@Iram: That's a racist statement and should not have been published. You want to say that Punjab is private property of Noora league? The 'jaag Punjabi jaag' phenomena of Noora league will break up this country if not checked. Let us not forget the fall of East Pakistan. People like you were responsible for that disaster.
Some one typed " NS IS THE ONLY PERSON TO SAVE PAKISTAN.." thank you for making me laugh
Successful day for PTI. Chaos enough to get them attention. Government will not get any mileage from this and its PTI only who would benefit. Sad day for Pakistan and citizens. Disrupting city forcefully and claiming peaceful protest!! Few more kills and PTI would be jumping inside out saying this it. Maybe now with help of 3rd umpire we can uproot Govt. Maybe 3rd umpire is still hanging in. He would have said to Imran. Need more drama to step in. So Imran obliging.
This is unforunate that whenever country start moving in right direction some force appear who derail the country from economic path.
This is golden time when oil prices are going down.
Every patriotic pakistani should stood up for betterment of Pakistan.After all we are one nation.
Why weaponed PTI workers entered schools in Faisalabad today to close them forcefully. All the schools were open and PTI tried to close them forcefully. Shame for PTI.
Gullu League is a gang of murderers, vandals and corruption criminals. It should be banned permanently with other vandal gangs such as wadera corruption party and diesel gang
Shame for IK who is doing dirty politics of anarchy and chaos. He is the only hurdle in the way towards country's progress.
PMLN is responsible for killing of yet another innocent life. Enough is enough. How long Sharif bros think people can just sit at home and watch all the loot, plunder, killings and corruption. I wasnt a supporter of PTI but i guess what Ik is doing is the only solution in the absence of true democracy and justice in Pakistan. "Go Nawaz Go".
The difference we can see clearly, MQM shutdowns Karachi no one raises fingers. PTI doing the same and every one becomes patriot. Everyone here is opportunist.
To the peopel suggesting this is not the way.... i guess Imran Khan should go to an antique shop, buy a magic lamp and make 3 wiehses ...! This is Pakistan. The only thing Imran Khan can do is pritest with the people of Pakistan. Bravo... Pakistan Khan.
If this is a revolution, there would be no need for Imran Khan's goons to forcibly shut down the city. The citizens would gladly do it themselves.
This is an inside job. PTI's politics is at a critical stage and they need something like this to get out of this mess they created for themselves. Since the govt did not give Imran Khan a face-saving option, something like this was bound to happen.
@Ali Hassan: Thanks man for the update. I don't have TV access but I believed in the people and support for IK. One more request for PTi workers is to remain peaceful. We don't want to be named as MQM Part 2.
is there any person which would condemn brutal killing of unarmed workers,
people have once again supported Imran khan for a greater picture..Naya Pakistan is inevitable now!!!...RIP 23 year brave freedom fighter..Mayy Allah bess you Jana tul firdos..Amin
This was expected if we listen to the threats of Rana sanaullah. I have never seen a government in a democratic discourse coming to streets against the opposition. this is really dangerous. This is another example of GULLOISM.
Chaos, ignorance, oppression, unmercifulness, violence and manslaughter is the way!
@Ali Hassan: It seems that PTI social team is upset that the majority of law abiding citizens rejected calls to anarchy by Imnran Khan who lusts for power at all costs. I will never vote PTI again because of their behavior. @Raghu: You mean 14 people instigated by Tahirul Qadri to attack police were killed because they were brainwashed. Learn to think for yourself and work within the parliamentary system. Say no to 3 rd World Arab Spring dharnas that lead to instability. Do you want to see Libya, Syria, Iraq or Egypt in Pakistan? No thanks.
There should'nt be PMLN workers, just Police was adequate if there is any forceful shut down by PTI, and it would be over on today but it does'nt happen due to once gain Mr, Rana Sanaullah & company. Mian Sb once gain would be in hot water after Model town Massacre. Mian Sb Please wake up and do differentiate between friend and enemy.
@Shazia Bangash: See how many have Recommended your comment :) That shows it all.
very sad ...IK you always claimed that u are well educated,genius but your movement and statement,action are worst.. strange but true.
The accusations on MQM by all the parties have no weight whatsoever now (neither previously).
What an idiotic Gulluism by PMLN ! But what else can we expect from PMLN. Lets see what Rana Sanaullah does next time BOYS take charge in Islamabad ;)
Noon League will tolerate shutdown strike by opponents but won't allow Election Audit . Because Audit is scarier than clashes , Audit is scarier than murdering , Audit is the scariest thing ever. Some paid trolls blame PTI for anarchy , Let me tell u this Plan C is happening after 118 days of dharna. What else do u expect from us , we sit in our homes and curse the gov and injustices and forget everything. U call it whatever either lust of power or hidden foreign agenda but deep down u all know that this all started from those "4 HALQAS"
What a mess ! Another life goes infront of PMLN's stuborness. You don't want to address PTI's complain, you don't want negotiations, you don't want protests who has given you Pakistan as dowry to PMLN ?
Oh God, Pervaiz Rashid again, he is also a constant torture along with IK
@Asad:
Dear Asad , The point is PTI provoking voilence from day1 e.g. #1 crossing in to red zone #2 cross red line after D Chowk #3 Attack on PTV + PM House + Parliment and there is many more . Dear Sir , If PMLN or PPP or any othr part did this in past , this is not my or my childeren problem . The problem is that when the party whose slogan is new pakistan are doing same bad things , I hate my self that why I voted for PTI in 2013 elections along with whole famaily regardless we always vbote for PMLN . Even Ghulam Sarwar of PTI won . Frankly I never likes him as he big big LOOTA . He first was PPP , than PMLQ and now with PTI even than we voted him for new pakistan or you can say for Imran khan . Dear I am ashamed of vote PTI as PTI is same as other parties and my family is now very hurt . Hope you take above as positive note as I am not favoring little PMLN or PPP or any other party against PTI. God Bless All.
@Ch. Ghafoor Islam: I don't agree that NS is the only hope. But what IK is doing since August, thats not right. Actually, IK has re-invented the way of coming into the power. This is called right use of education in the business.
@Mukhtar: Imran was not holding the gun. It was PMLN worker. the PMLN leaders must be happy.
People here are blaming IK for the death of the PTI member. We should set the shooter free and catch Imran khan. What blindness and paid PMLN trolling. Shame.
It seems PMLn social team is all over ET comments section. For all PTI haters: turn on ur TV sets and see for yourself how successful PTI call for Faisalabad lockdown has been. Life in faisalabad has completely gome stand still. Thank you IK for waking us up. We owe you, Pakistan owes you.
That was what Imran khan wanted to become Prime Minister of Pakistan. The Dream can never be realized khan you will only be weeping for that chair.
If you are In Punjab be the supporter of PMLN otherwise you have no right to live in this province.
I think Imran would be happy on getting a dead body for doing politics. Imran's wish is fulfilled.
Imran Khan has become mad in lust of power. He is a selfish person who does not see things beyond his nose. Allah bless Pakistan.
Imran is looking for blood and dead bodies. He is responsible for all this chaos. Shame for Imran Khan. I feel pity for paid trolls of PTI who are still supporting PTI.
@ Shazia Bangash You absolutely nailed it! :D
@Ashfaq1: You find that disgusting. How about this. 14 innocent people unarmed were gunned down buy PMLN Police, Blind people were pushed and dragged on the ground by PMLN Police. A PTI worker was shot dead by a PMLN worker. and you still think beating is disgusting. Wake up!
Despite of all the evils of government, it is not allowed to destabilized the country for political aims. we strongly condemn this way of politics. PTI should continuous his protest within the limits of constitution of the country but not like that. It is contrary to their portfolio.
It's laughable to listen to Shah Mahmood Qureishi. "Is tehreek Mein Ab Khoon Shamil Ho Chuka Hai". Now isn't that what PTI wanted from the very beginning ? PTI is responsible for spreading chaos and anarchy and for disrupting the economy of Pakistan.
@waseem: when they have educated people like Asad Umar and Imran Khan then who needs uneducated people?
Just read that PTI worker are beating shop owners who are refusing to close shops with lathi. Disgusting!
PTI cross the height of insurgency
@Saood: KPK in 90 days? Are you high? You like to twist statements. What was promised was end to top level corruption in 90 days. And it was done.
Did Showbaz shareef end load sheeding in 6 months? 2 years? 5 year? 10 years? 100 years????
IK is not gonna bend or bow. He is only one standing and speaking of change so we must stand with him.
why is pml n people there. they shouldn't be there . they are there because they believe in confrontational politics!!.
I think if these protest and sit in will continue Pakistan will be drag on civil war , all parties should shun protest for time being and EC should declare null and void the result of all disputed seats and announce fresh /by election come what be. Pakistan zindabad
Don't worry Shahbaz Sharif has taken notice. Everything will be all right. There will be peace everywhere.
All revolutions have blood involved...like it or not. Recent example of Hong Kong may be referred to. PTI is the last & only hope if we need Pakistan to excel and be one of the respected and fast developing nations of the world.
@ashar: Shame PTI? Really! I thought it was MQM, mostly MQM is responsible for all evil in Pakistan
I dont know if people even read the whole news article before starting to blabber out things. The news clearly states that two PTI supporters were shot at by the nooners. I dont know how they came to a conclusion that imran khan is promoting violence.
This is true that this Imran Khan's step is absolutely wrongful but why PML-N is showing contrary,dishonesty and insincerity and why is using delaying tactics to investigate the elections' rigging?PML-N is the equal responsible for the current political unrest in Pakistan and if PML-N is clear and really people elected PML-N then PML-N has to investigate the elections' rigging and clear itself from the accusations of rigging instead of wasting time and using delaying tactics.... @Najam ul Hassan: @ashar: This has been happening in Sindh also when on a single call of MQM the whole cities traders close their shops most especially importantly when businesses and shops in the major cities of Sindh are closed why? @Ch. Ghafoor Islam:Only hope for this country is Nawaz Sharif. Keep up daydreaming and stargazing and yes you are right because as PM Nawaz Sharif has full chances/opportunities to make the useless foreign tours/trips with his family members,blue-eyed ministers and servants as many as possible on the tax money of the common Pakistani people......
@haha: There is nothing wrong in holding notes, all professionals do that, it also can b taken the other way round which indicates that they did their homework before meeting someone...
This is what they have to offer to build naya Pakistan. Then we are happy with our Current Pakistan. Brainless, pathetic, useless, directionless, aimless and complete failure show.
Paid trolls are so easy to recognize in the comments sections. And they come out most when the government is in panic! :D
Shame on the Govt, they are no fulfilling the rigging demands of PTI which are legal, IK whole nation is with u. Please keep it up
Poor Show IK (time wastage and loss of hard earnings of people who are funding PTI), better concentrate on performance in KPK.
Yesterday press conference of IK in Bangi Galla was the most frustrated look of IK.. Its clearly seemed that something going against his own will..Three new entries in PTI were the losers of last elections and famous in changing there loyalties.
Dear PTI I am confused If it is a voluntary shutdown why are you blocking roads Thats forcing, not inviting to volunteer
Can PTI supporters tell where is new KPK that was to be built within 90 days? PTI is continuously ignoring KPK and budget of the KPK is being wasted in protests.
Faisalabad is NOT CLOSED! PTI failed yet again.
Shame for Imran Khan who is creating agitation and violence in Pakistan. He is an enemy of democracy.
Imran Khan is doing the dirtiest politics ever done by any politician in Pakistan. He wants to damage the economy of Pakistan for his political gains.
PTI's Plan C is destroying Businesses of poor peoples of Pakistan. Go Imran Go (to bani Gala).
We know what we have learned from NS. How to loot the poor Pakistan money and stash it in European banks. We don't need such educated leader of N_league.
Close the city, to rebuild a better future.
Asking for law to be applied fairly but breaking the law themselves
I salute people of Faisalabad who have opened entire city today despite dirty politics of PTI. My prayers for Pakistan.
No sane man can vote for PTI. This party is led by the biggest liar of Pakistan.
@waseem: MNS and MSS are a very educated scholar type personalities who hold notes when meet any Prime Minister or President of other Countries.
Imran should focus on KPK. Province KPK is suffering due to corruption and bad governance of PTI.
I strongly support PTI point of view regarding election rigging and corruption. But this is not right way to protest.
Only hope for this country is Nawaz Sharif. Imran is wasting the time of nation.
Biggest shame for PTI and its leadership.
Nothing is closed in Faisalabad today. Brave people of Faisalabad have won while PTI has lost. Allah bless Pakistan.
This is how they close city. shame PTI.
Imran is teaching hate and violence to his workers. PTI is a party of uneductaed people.