Imran Khan Supporters Clash with Police, Marking Second Anniversary of Khan's Imprisonment



Massive protests led by supporters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the party of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, erupted nationwide across Pakistan's major cities including Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi. These demonstrations mark the second anniversary of Khan's imprisonment and represent an ongoing political crisis in Pakistan.

Thousands of PTI activists defied a government ban on gatherings, clashing with police forces who responded with tear gas and made numerous arrests. In Lahore alone, over 240 protesters were detained during raids and protests. Police also arrested dozens in Karachi and other cities, where protesters organized rallies on motorcycles, rickshaws, and foot, chanting slogans demanding Khan’s release and restoration of democracy.

Despite a heavy crackdown, PTI leadership called for peaceful resistance, framing the protests as a movement against what they term political repression. Senior party figures and activists were stopped from reaching Khan, imprisoned in Adiala Jail, amid tight security. The party claims the charges against Khan are politically motivated, with his supporters pledging to continue demonstrations until "true democracy is restored."

Authorities imposed curfews and restrictions on public assemblies, especially in Punjab province, to curb the unrest. Security forces are on high alert, having conducted physical and tactical anti-riot training in anticipation of protests.

The political instability follows Khan’s ouster in 2022 and arrest in 2023, incidents that sparked widespread unrest and clashes with state institutions. This latest wave of protests reflects deep divisions in Pakistan’s political landscape and underscores the fragility of the country’s democratic processes.

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