The federal capital is on high alert as the Pakistan Army takes charge, armed with shoot-on-sight orders, following the martyrdom of four Rangers personnel in clashes with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protestors. While speculation swirls about a curfew being imposed in Islamabad, the government has neither confirmed nor denied the claims, though Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has hinted at the possibility if the situation escalates.
“If necessary, we will impose a curfew, invoke Article 245 to call in the army, or take any extreme measures needed to maintain order,” Naqvi declared. His stern warning came after protestors, reportedly led by a convoy accompanying Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, clashed with security forces, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries.
Naqvi emphasized that the PTI leadership had been offered Sangjani as a designated protest site, but the party appeared intent on creating chaos. “They were given a clear and peaceful option, yet they continue to provoke violence. If they fire, we will respond in kind,” he stated, accusing PTI of deliberately inciting unrest.
Rising Casualties and Escalating Violence
Monday night witnessed one of the deadliest attacks, as miscreants rammed a vehicle into Rangers personnel on the Srinagar Highway, killing four officers and injuring five others. Security sources have confirmed that six law enforcement officers, including two police personnel, have been martyred so far, with more than 100 officers injured, some critically.
Earlier in the day, another violent confrontation erupted at Chungi No. 26, where PTI protestors reportedly pelted stones and opened fire, injuring a Rangers officer. He was rushed to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) for treatment. The chaos intensified as protestors disguised as demonstrators infiltrated the city, targeting law enforcement officers and creating widespread panic.
Security at Stake Amid Belarusian President’s Visit
The unrest comes at a critical time as Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko is in Islamabad for a high-stakes visit. Interior Minister Naqvi underscored the heightened importance of maintaining security during the President’s stay, stressing, “With international dignitaries present, attempting to seize control of the city with thousands of protestors is unacceptable. We will not tolerate it.”
Naqvi reiterated the government’s firm stance, highlighting ongoing communication efforts with PTI leaders to avert further violence. He warned that crossing the government’s “red line” would result in decisive action to protect Islamabad and its citizens.
A City at a Crossroads
The violent protests, coinciding with sensitive diplomatic engagements, have placed Islamabad at a crossroads. While the government emphasizes dialogue and designated protest sites, the PTI’s unyielding stance continues to strain the capital’s security apparatus. As the nation watches closely, the situation underscores the fragile balance between democratic expression and public order.
Authorities remain resolute: any further escalation will be met with unwavering force to ensure the safety and stability of the federal capital.