Several Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers were detained by police in Karachi following clashes near Bagh-e-Jinnah before the party’s public gathering. Over 30 workers were arrested after protesters allegedly assaulted a police officer, leading to their detention in a prisoners’ van at Numaish Chowrangi, as reported by local media.
Police resorted to shelling to disperse the PTI workers at the scene, with additional disturbances reported at the VIP gate of Mazar-e-Quaid where clashes occurred between protesters and security personnel. Authorities mentioned that further measures would be taken against those involved in the stone-pelting incidents.
The PTI had planned a significant event at Bagh-e-Jinnah after receiving a non-objection certificate (NOC) from the Sindh government. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi had anticipated a “historic” public gathering during his visit to Sindh.
Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon clarified that the NOC for the gathering was granted with specific conditions, emphasizing the organizers’ responsibility for maintaining law and order. He highlighted that any speeches against the nation or state institutions, as well as the use of provocative language or sectarian remarks, would not be tolerated.
Despite not obtaining written permission, PTI proceeded with a public rally at Bagh-e-Jinnah, as confirmed by Afridi. The party’s street movement, initiated on the directives of party founder Imran Khan, aimed to garner support for Khan’s release and the reinstatement of constitutional governance.
