The government deployed the Pakistan Army in Islamabad under Article 245 of the Constitution. Protests led by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have escalated tensions in the capital.
Clashes turned deadly on Srinagar Highway when a vehicle struck Rangers officials. The attack killed four Rangers and two policemen. Meanwhile, at Chungi No. 26 in Rawalpindi, protesters hurled stones and fired at security forces. A Ranger suffered critical injuries and was rushed to CMH Rawalpindi.
The red zone in Islamabad now remains heavily guarded. Rangers stand at key points to prevent further violence. Officials have issued shoot-on-sight orders for agitators and approved curfews in sensitive areas.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited D-Chowk and attended the funeral of Constable Mubashar Bilal. He condemned PTI’s actions, accusing the party of promoting violence. The government offered Sangjani as an alternative protest site, but PTI has not responded.
Naqvi warned protesters to stay away from D-Chowk. He stressed that strict action, including curfews, will safeguard Islamabad’s sensitive zones.
