In a police crackdown on PTI protests, several individuals, including Meher Bano, daughter of PTI leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi, were arrested in Multan. Law enforcement took action as demonstrators gathered despite the enforcement of Section 144 across Punjab, which bans public gatherings and rallies.
Protests and Arrests in Multan
PTI activists staged protests at multiple locations in Multan, including Ghunghat Chowk, Chungi No. 9, Nawan Shahr Chowk, and Chok Kacheri. Meher Bano and Zahid Bahar Hashmi led the demonstration but were soon detained along with other party workers. The protest was swiftly dispersed, and the arrested individuals were transported to police stations in prisoner vans.
To prevent further unrest, heavy police deployment was seen across the city. Authorities maintained that the arrests were necessary to enforce Section 144 and prevent disruptions.
Read: Punjab Imposes Section 144 Ahead of PTI’s Black Day Protest
Government Response and Political Tensions
The Punjab government imposed Section 144 following PTI’s call for protests across the province. Officials stated that these measures were crucial to maintaining order amid increasing political tensions.
A day earlier, PTI had assured that it would avoid any confrontation or unrest on February 8, the first anniversary of the 2024 general elections. Instead, the party announced a major rally in Swabi, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, urging supporters from across the country to join.
Lahore Rally Denied Due to Security Concerns
PTI initially requested permission to hold a rally at Minar-e-Pakistan in Lahore, but the deputy commissioner rejected the request. Lahore DC Syed Musa Raza cited security concerns, stating that several high-profile events, including a cricket match, an international speaker conference, and a horse and cattle show, were scheduled in the city, requiring significant security personnel.
Rising Political Tensions
The police crackdown on PTI protests and the denial of rally permissions highlight the ongoing political tensions in Pakistan. As PTI continues to mobilize supporters despite restrictions, the government remains firm in enforcing security measures to prevent large-scale unrest. The coming days will be crucial in determining how these political developments unfold.
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