Supporters of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is currently in jail, clashed with security forces in Islamabad after reaching the heavily-barricaded capital on Tuesday. The protesters, part of a convoy marching toward D Chowk—known as Democracy Square—have been demanding Khan’s release and other reforms since their journey began over the weekend.
The situation turned violent as the march moved through the city, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least six people, including four paramilitary soldiers and two protesters. Clashes occurred at various points, but some determined demonstrators managed to reach D Chowk, scaling shipping containers placed to block their way. However, hours after they arrived, security forces cleared the area. As night fell, the lights in the square were turned off, leaving only police and paramilitary personnel behind.
While some protesters made it beyond the barricades, they were pushed back just a few hundred meters. Despite this, thousands of Khan’s supporters remain in the area. To combat the cold, many are burning paper, grass, and even bushes to stay warm. Muhammad Shahid, who traveled from Punjab with his family, shared his motivation for being there: “Imran Khan’s message inspires us. He says we must fight for our rights.”
The government, wary of potential violence, had banned public gatherings and blocked roads with shipping containers. Police reinforcements were brought in from across the country, and internet restrictions were reportedly imposed. Schools and colleges were also closed as a precaution.
The interior minister revealed that an alternative venue was offered to the protesters, but they refused to relocate. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif criticized the march, blaming the protesters for the deaths of four soldiers and calling it an act of “extremism.” In a statement, he said, “These disruptive elements are not seeking revolution but bloodshed.”
Meanwhile, Zulfikar Bukhari, spokesperson for Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) party, reported that two protesters had lost their lives—one shot and another run over by a vehicle. The clashes have left at least 50 people injured, highlighting the tense atmosphere as the standoff continues.
