Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has claimed that PTI Chairman Imran Khan agreed to change the protest location, but his wife, Bushra Bibi, rejected the proposal. Speaking in Sialkot, Asif said this decision escalated the situation during the November 24 sit-in.
Protests Lead to Violence
Asif recalled that PTI workers crossed barricades and marched toward Islamabad. This confrontation resulted in the martyrdom of Rangers and police personnel, with hundreds injured. He praised the security forces for preventing what he described as the “third attack on the federal government.”
Asif criticized PTI leaders for fleeing the scene when faced with resistance. He accused them of lacking resolve, comparing their actions to a failure in both wars and political movements.
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Bushra Bibi’s Role in Chaos
The Defence Minister revealed that the government offered PTI alternative protest locations. While Imran Khan initially agreed, Bushra Bibi insisted on continuing to D-Chowk. He claimed she expressed concerns over the large crowd, reportedly asking, “Who will go there now?”
Asif alleged that Bushra Bibi fled the scene alongside Ali Amin Gandapur, who also faced attacks on his vehicle during the retreat. According to Asif, PTI leaders escaped with difficulty and resurfaced later in Mansehra.
Conflicting Reports on Casualties
Asif questioned PTI’s claims about fatalities during the protests. He noted conflicting reports from party leaders, including Sardar Latif Khosa’s claim of 278 deaths, later revised to single digits.
He stated that no evidence supported claims of mass killings. Asif pointed out the absence of videos, funeral footage, or statements from the families of alleged victims. Injuries were reported, but no verified fatality figures emerged.
Praise for PIA’s European Flights Resumption
On a different note, Asif welcomed the resumption of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to Europe. He called it a positive development that would help PIA regain its share in the European market.
He also linked the decision to PIA’s privatization, stating it would enhance the airline’s market presence and financial stability.
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