LAHORE: The district administration cut power and seized the stage at a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rally in Lahore. The event, on Saturday, exceeded the permitted time limit of 6 PM. Officials had instructed PTI leaders to end the rally after the allotted time expired. They warned of legal action for violating the no-objection certificate (NOC). The rally was scheduled from 2 PM to 6 PM, but PTI leadership arrived late.
As participants began to leave, the lights at the Kahna venue turned off, plunging the site into darkness. Only mobile phone lights illuminated the area. Police were deployed at key entry and exit points in Lahore. The administration ordered an immediate evacuation of the venue. Attendees started to leave voluntarily as officers entered.
In a separate incident, Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur, reacted angrily to roadblocks on his way to the rally. He reportedly broke a truck’s window with his rifle. Despite the obstacles, Gandapur and his convoy, which included over 500 vehicles, reached the rally site after clearing barriers.
Upon arriving, Gandapur delivered a brief speech. He declared, “I broke through all the barriers to reach you. Are you happy? I am here, and my attendance is marked.” He promised to work for the release of PTI founder Imran Khan. After thanking the crowd, he ended his address.
Support for the Judiciary
Later, Gandapur released a video message. He announced he would share a full statement the next day. Opposing the government’s proposed constitutional amendments, he expressed strong support for the judiciary. He thanked the citizens of Lahore for their turnout, stating, “I want to thank the brave people of Lahore for standing against fascism.”
Following the administration’s actions, PTI workers clashed with police at the Kala Shah Kaku Motorway Interchange. The confrontation resulted in damage to several vehicles. Eyewitnesses reported that angry PTI supporters smashed windows and blocked roads in both directions. This caused major traffic disruptions in the area.
PTI leaders expected Gandapur’s speech to be a highlight of the rally. However, many senior leaders, including Asad Qaiser and Omar Ayub, failed to arrive on time. PTI’s social media claimed that the Lahore administration blocked Gandapur’s convoy. They shared a video showing him walking with supporters toward the venue.
Earlier, Lahore Deputy Commissioner Syed Musa Raza warned rally organizers to stick to the approved schedule. He emphasized that the event must end by 6 PM. Police were instructed to file cases against anyone violating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Despite the challenges, thousands attended the rally. Many parked several kilometers away and walked to the venue. However, the rally site lacked proper lighting, complicating conditions for participants. Heavy traffic congestion near General Hospital delayed many attendees.
PTI leaders criticized the Punjab government for its actions. They argued that the measures were desperate attempts to suppress the party’s influence. The rally showcased PTI’s commitment to its cause amid rising tensions with law enforcement.
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